Columbia Riverfront Park Unites Hundreds for Annual Out of the Darkness Walk, Driving Suicide Awareness and Support
Hundreds of individuals gathered at the Columbia Riverfront Park in Columbia, South Carolina, for the annual Out of the Darkness Walk. This event aims to provide support and raise awareness for those affected by suicide. Participants walked together, showing their solidarity and commitment to saving lives.
Ashley McCall shared her fond memories of her brother Colby McCall, who tragically passed away from suicide at the young age of 21. To honor his memory, Ashley and her family attended the walk at the Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park. She fondly described Colby as a vibrant individual who always wore a smile, loved dancing, and had a passion for photography.
John Tjaarda, from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), explained that the walk’s objective is to support people impacted by suicide and increase awareness surrounding mental health. More than 600 people joined the event, all sharing a common goal: to save lives. Tjaarda also highlighted that conversations about suicide are changing, and the stigma associated with mental health is gradually shifting.
COVID-19 has surprisingly played a role in this shift, as it has encouraged people to prioritize their mental well-being and engage in open discussions about mental health. Tjaarda commended this positive change, saying, There’s this big stigma attached to mental health and suicide and suicide loss, specifically to where people were very uncomfortable talking about it. We still see that, but we’re trying to shout from the rooftops that it’s okay to not be okay.
In addition to the walk, participants had access to mental health resources and the opportunity to speak with experts in the field. A color-coded bead necklace system was implemented to differentiate individuals based on their connection to suicide.
Travis Duncan, a member of the Army National Guard who participated in the event, emphasized the importance of letting others know they are loved and supported, highlighting how a simple gesture or conversation can make a significant difference. Duncan said, One is too many. A simple gesture of asking somebody if they’re okay, if they’re having these intrusive thoughts, and digging in with them and showing them that they’re supported in every way will combat all of it.
Ashley McCall attended the walk with her family to show support for others going through similar experiences. She underscored the importance of seeking help and reaching out for support. McCall urged individuals to remember that they are not alone and encouraged them to seek the assistance they need. She expressed, Please, please reach out for support; reach out for help. We want to acknowledge that and bring awareness to that.
For emergency mental health support in South Carolina, individuals can text or call 988 for the statewide crisis and suicide helpline. For further resources from AFSP, visit their website.
The Out of the Darkness Walk at Columbia Riverfront Park served as a powerful reminder of the importance of suicide prevention and mental health support. As conversations surrounding mental health continue to evolve, events like these provide a platform for individuals to come together, raise awareness, and drive positive change.
