Chio Wants You to Join the NH Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk

Suicide is a big problem in the United States. In New Hampshire, it's the eighth leading cause of death, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

So during these uncertain times, it's even more crucial that we are making sure to take care of our mental health, anxiety and depression.

Suicide has touched me personally, and it’s a subject I feel passionately about. Years ago, my friend Greg was suffering with a depression that he just couldn’t shake. He was in and out of treatment facilities and was trying some new medication when I got that call that he had taken his own life. I was devastated.

We as a society have to do something; we have to spread awareness about suicide prevention. Thankfully The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is helping lead the way in this endeavor, and you can help make a difference by participating in the Out of the Darkness walk in Portsmouth on Oct. 3.

We are in this together, and we can fight suicide and show people just how strong, resilient and hopeful we can be.

Sure, we may not be able to gather in large groups this year, but you can still walk to fight suicide. The New Hampshire Out of the Darkness Experience allows you to choose your own course, what time you start, and who walks next to you (within social distancing guidelines, of course)!

These walks are an opportunity to bring messages of hope and awareness to the places we call home.

If you can't walk, that's OK, too, as you can simply make a donation at The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention website.

Together we will be a part of the movement turning hope into action. Suicide prevention starts with everyday heroes like you.