Out of Darkness walks aim to save lives

Research supports the statistic that 90% of people who died by suicide had a diagnosable - yet sometimes undiagnosed - mental health disorder at the time of their death. That was certainly the case when both my sister and father died by suicide.

As a survivor of suicide loss and one who also lives with depression and anxiety, I am a passionate advocate in the suicide awareness and support movement. That's why I'll be joining over 7,000 others with a connection to this cause on Sept. 21 at the Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk being held at Montrose Harbor in Chicago.

Benefitting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), Out of the Darkness walks are held in communities across the nation and raise needed funds to support AFSP's mission: to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.

As such, monies raised further vital research into the causes of suicide and best practice preventative treatments, expand suicide prevention educational programs and promote mental health and suicide prevention efforts.

Yet, the walks are more than fundraising events. These walks inspire. They offer hope. The walks connect attempt and loss survivors, sending the message that they are not alone, that there are literally thousands of others who share their challenges, their stories and their hope to realize a world without suicide.

Seven thousand attendees may seem like a significant presence, and it truly is-having secured the Chicago Walk as one of the largest suicide awareness and prevention walks in the country - but your voice can raise our volume and make our message that much more impactful.

Please join me on Sept. 21 and take a stand against the stigma. Share your story. Be a voice for yourself and others. You can donate and register to walk or volunteer at afsp.org/chicago.

Erika Barber

Arlington Heights