Every step taken during this year’s Out of the Darkness Walk was a step closer to break the silence surrounding mental health. On April 12th, the University of Rochester River Campus community gathered for the Out of the Darkness Walk, hosted in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). The Out of the Darkness Walk brought together students, faculty, and community members in a shared commitment to suicide prevention awareness, providing a space to honor those affected and reaffirm that no one has to navigate mental health challenges alone.
During the event, I had the opportunity to share a few words that reflected the purpose behind the walk and I would like to reiterate them:
“There is something powerful about choosing to come together instead of staying silent. Silence can make people feel alone. Silence can make people believe that no one would understand. But today, we are proving otherwise.
Today says: you are not alone.
Today says: your life matters.
Today says: there are people who care about you, even when it feels impossible to believe.”
The event was made possible through collaboration across the University community. From the outset, Glenn Cerosaletti, Assistant Dean of Students and Director of the Center for Community Engagement (CCE), encouraged the development of the initiative. Support from CCE, along with contributions from student organizations including Active Minds and the newly student-founded UR Supported, as well as faculty and volunteers, helped transform the walk into a campus-wide effort centered on care and connection. In total, the event raised more than $6,000 and welcomed approximately 185 participants.
More than a single day of engagement, the Out of the Darkness Walk served as a reminder of the ongoing importance of mental health advocacy and community support. Moving forward, I hope to see our campus continue to build on this momentum, creating a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported. You are not alone.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, resources are available, including the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, the University of Rochester CARE Network, and the University Counseling Center.
Author: Rebecca Baldwin