Auburn Out of the Darkness Walk shines light on suicide prevention

"I think suicide is ultimately a selfish act" is a phrase told to one of AFSP's members who was wearing one of the organization's T-shirts. The phrase – misguided and dangerous in how it maligns those experiencing suicidality – is an example of the stigma which is part of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's (AFSP) mission to help raise awareness around mental health. The annual Out of the Darkness Community Walk took place at Railhead Park last weekend. As part of the walk's opening ceremony, committee members held up beaded necklaces honoring different groups touched by suicide and its many facets. Committee members, volunteers and a few hundred attendees then embarked on the 2-mile trek to help honor those lost to suicide – family members, friends, service members – while showing solidarity with those currently struggling. Some committee members gave speeches that highlighted their personal struggles, powerfully engaging with the moment and shining a light that those suffering are not alone. One very powerful moment in particular came when 17-year-old Diana Doyle spoke to the crowd of her mental health journey. She'd recently spoken about her struggles to classmates in a passionate and raw speech that she bravely gave again at the Walk. For Aaron Christopher, who was part of the Out of the Darkness committee, Saturday's walk was incredible. "Seeing how many people were walking gave me a sense of the strength of our community and how much support is truly out there for this cause. I was blown away looking at that crowd all walking together. I'm so glad I got to be a small part of that day." Once the walk was complete, there were musical performances by members of the Auburn Hip Hop Congress. Christian Couto – professionally known as CoU'RaGe – serves as chair for the walk and was the MC along with DJJ, later performing their mental health song Living for Today as well as others. There was also an opportunity drawing. All in all, the day was a success in terms of not only creating dialogue but raising money to help the organization continue to raise awareness regarding suicide prevention. "On October 11th, our Placer County community members took a brave and courageous step to create space for suicide awareness and prevention, an effort to create a culture that's smart about mental health," said Lauren Pulido, a rep for AFSP who shepherded the walk along with Couto for the first time and credited it as a substantial way of creating a lasting impact. "With over 200 people present, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's Out of the Darkness Walk continues to make a lasting impact on all those involved and symbolizes the reason behind our mission, to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide. We raised over $22,000 for research, education and advocacy around suicide prevention work for AFSP, and our work is not done yet. Join us at the next Out of the Darkness Community Walk on October 25th at the California State Capitol west steps, and be part of this mission with us." Neva Parker, taking time out of her busy campaign running for Assembly District 5, reflected on how suicide has touched so many lives and believes it's important for us to share our stories. As she noted, shared stories are what ultimately connects us – a theme brought crushingly to light with Hannah Woodsford's speech detailing her mental health journey. Woodsford became a committee member a few months before, and this was the first walk she'd been a part of. Her speech touched on her struggles with depression and intrusive thoughts; her becoming sober and delving into the deeper aspects of coping with a brain trying to work against her. It was equal parts harrowing and hopeful. And the crowd – as with all of the speakers – was visibly moved by her words of empathy and understanding. Woodford later reflected on the day as being "truly incredible." "It was so moving to see our community come together with so much love, support and hope for such an important cause. As a committee member, it was beautiful to watch people walk side by side, sharing laughter, tears and connection." For everyone involved, whether they knew someone who died by suicide or they themself attempted, it was an impactful reminder that like the AFSP says, "talk saves lives." And every conversation is another chance at crushing the stigma and helping others. "The most meaningful moment for me," Woodsford continued, "was getting to share my story and hearing from others who said it resonated with them. It reminded me that my struggles have become strengths I can now use to help others." If you or someone you know is struggling, call 988.