Out of the Darkness, Into the Light

Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for American’s ages 18-24 and the Auburn Family has felt the immense pain of losing loved ones to suicide far too frequently. 
Active Minds is teaming up with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention by hosting the City of Auburn Out of the Darkness Walk. 

Learn more about them here: 
http://afsp.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=cms.page&id=1154

Event Details

Walk Date: This Sunday 10/09/2016
Walk Location: Auburn University Greenspace
Check-in/Registration Time: 1:00 pm
Walk Begins: 2:00 pm
Walk Ends: 4:00 pm

Online registration closes at noon (local time) the Friday before the walk. However, anyone who would like to participate can register in person at the walk from the time check-in begins until the walk starts. 

Walk donations are accepted until December 31st.

"By participating in the walk, we are increasing awareness, showing support for those who have been impacted by suicide loss, and raising funds that will contribute to crucial efforts to reduce suicide rates and increase support for survivors. We are committed to making this year’s event the most successful yet and are asking for your help." 
-Taylor Wesley, 2015 Miss Homecoming 

"I attended Out of the Darkness Walk last October in Auburn, and was so impressed with the experience. It was really encouraging and comforting to be surrounded by so many people who have been impacted, in some form, by suicide. There are different beads that represent personal attempt, family member or close friend loss, general supporter of the cause, etc. so you get an idea for people’s connections to the cause immediately. The Walk brought people together from all corners of both campus and community. I even got to see some familiar faces that I had no idea were affected by suicide, and that facilitated some great conversations. 

Personally, I have lost both a cousin and close friend to suicide, as well as been the supporting shoulder or voice of reason for multiple friends who have contemplated, or in one case attempted, suicide over the years. I have learned so much about the power of simply addressing the topic. It is often times, as mental illnesses collectively are, a hushed topic. Really, this does not make sense since it is overwhelmingly common (second leading cause of death in teens and young adults – car accidents are number 1). 

I am passionate about encouraging people talk about their struggles. You never know if one question could save a life. I have experienced this multiple times. I have asked the questions, I have made calls to the parents, I have (literally) been the one to talk a friend off the ledge. It is not easy and it is hard to hear a friend in pain, but it is tenfold worth it to know they are living and to see them on the other side of getting help. TheOut of the Darkness Walk is a great way to hear testimonials, facilitate conversations, and establish relationships with others who are struggling personally or are passionate about helping those who are. Suicide, as I previously mentioned, is the second leading cause of death in teens and young adults, but it doesn’t stop there…those lost lives are attached to families and friends and classmates and teammates and coworkers and on and on. It is a never end cycle that has to end. It may be the second leading cause of death, but it is also the most preventable cause of death. Having a conversation can save a life. Let’s get Auburn talking." 
-India Way, Auburn Alpha Delta Pi Alum

"This past spring, The Office of Greek Life partnered with The Office of Health and Wellness to facilitate a QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) training session for every chapter President and Greek Council Executive Officers. It's hard to put into words how powerful this night was for all of us. QPR is a wonderful resource that encourages the powerful notion of talking about suicide, and as Auburn students we are incredibly fortunate to have regular free training sessions organized by the Office of Health and Wellness. Ask the questions, have the conversations, help others get help, and ultimately, save lives. 

Having personally struggled with mental health while in college, and knowing how many others within our Panhellenic community do too, I strongly encourage you to participate in the walk and let others know they're not alone in their fight."
-Jaylin Goodwin, 2016 Panhellenic President

So, How Can You Help?

• A representative can either create a specific team for your organization OR individuals can join a team using this link (it only takes a couple of minutes).
  • You are not required to donate when you sign up, but you have the option to contribute to our goal of $30,000 
  • You can show support, raise funds, or donate through your personal profile when you are a member of a team 
  • OR if you cannot participate in the walk itself, you can still show support as a virtual walker
• Encourage others to participate in the walk/ donate and share on social media (here are some images):