Largest suicide prevention walk in the U.S. to be held in Chicago

With May being Mental Health Awareness Month, now is the time to talk about this big event. Thousands will gather at Montrose Harbor in Chicago for the 22nd annual Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk on Saturday, Sept. 27 for the nation's largest suicide prevention event. Organized by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), this 3-mile walk serves as a powerful tribute to those lost to suicide and a rallying point for individuals committed to mental health advocacy.

The event commences at 9:00 a.m. with an opening ceremony at 10:30 a.m., followed by the walk kickoff at 11:00 a.m. Participation is free, but walkers are encouraged to raise $150 by walk day to receive the official event t-shirt. Funds raised support AFSP's mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.

Suicide remains a critical public health issue in Illinois, ranking as the third leading cause of death for individuals aged 10-34 and the sixth for those aged 35-54. Events like the Out of the Darkness Walk play a vital role in raising awareness and funding for suicide prevention efforts.

Participants will find various on-site resources, including an Education Outreach Tent offering free AFSP materials, a Mental Health Services Tent for immediate support, and the "Why We Walk" Wall for sharing personal stories and tributes. Honor Beads will be available to signify each participant's connection to the cause, fostering a sense of community and understanding.

To join the movement and help make a difference, register at afsp.org/Chicago. Whether you walk to honor a loved one, support a friend, or advocate for mental health awareness, your participation contributes to a collective effort to bring suicide "Out of the Darkness" and into the light.

If you are in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 74174. AFSP does not provide its own crisis hotline service.