Out of Darkness Walk Sheds Light on Suicide Prevention
The Out of Darkness Walk, a nationwide event aimed at raising awareness about mental health issues and suicide prevention, unfolded successfully on Oct. 29 at the War Memorial Park Golf Course in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Dr. Shelia Brooks, a clinical assistant professor at the UA Little Rock School of Nursing, shed light on the purpose of the walk, emphasizing its role in commemorating those lost to suicide and fostering a sense of community among participants.
According to Dr. Brooks, the primary objective of the Out of Darkness Walk is to bring attention to mental health, suicide, and suicide prevention. Participants, including family, friends, church members, and coworkers, gather in memory of loved ones lost to suicide. This event, which takes place in all 50 states across over 400 locations, serves as a powerful demonstration of unity in tackling the challenges associated with mental health.
The Out of Darkness Walk not only provides a platform for collective remembrance but also contributes significantly to the cause through fundraising efforts. Dr. Brooks highlighted that all proceeds from the event go toward funding the mission of spreading awareness and prevention of suicide. The contributions made by participants play a crucial role in saving lives, offering hope, and addressing the aftermath of suicide through support and understanding.
For Dr. Brooks, personal involvement in the walk is deeply rooted in a tragic experience.
“A relative near and dear to my heart took his life in 2020 via suicide,” she shared. “Suicide awareness and prevention are serious matters that are often overlooked until it’s too late—the aftermath.”
This personal connection underscores the gravity of the cause and motivates her active participation in advocating for mental health awareness.
Describing the diverse activities that took place during the event, Dr. Brooks mentioned prayer, face painting, music, singing, dancing, and a variety of refreshments. The use of Mardi Gras beads, each color symbolizing different meanings, added a poignant touch to the event. Personal testimonials and the availability of suicide awareness/prevention paraphernalia further enriched the experience.
Despite the challenges posed by cold, wet, and rainy weather, the event witnessed active participation from the UA Little Rock School of Nursing. Dr. Brooks and Kyrsten Smith led a team of 43 members, ranking 14th out of 89 teams in fundraising, raising $479.
Looking ahead, Dr. Brooks extended an invitation to join the UA Little Rock School of Nursing in the upcoming Suicide Awareness Campus Walk in April 2024 and the Community Walk in November 2024. She emphasized the importance of addressing mental health issues, stating, “Mental Health Matters – YOU Matter!” The goal is to continue breaking the silence surrounding mental health, promoting counseling, medication, and both outpatient and inpatient care.
For more information, contact Brooks at smbrooks1@ualr.edu or Aresh Assadi at axassadi@ualr.edu.
