Out of the Darkness walk in Little Rock shines light on suicide prevention

LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — The annual Little Rock Out of the Darkness walk for suicide prevention took place this weekend at MacArthur Park in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

The Little Rock Out of the Darkness Walk is the state’s largest suicide prevention gathering, reminding everyone that they are not alone

“The idea behind our event today is to bring the topic of suicide out of the dark,” said Jacqueline Sharp, Arkansas regional director for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

The walk in Little Rock is one of thousands of Out of the Darkness marches taking place across the country, each raising awareness and funds for suicide prevention, research and education.

“The first thing we tell people when we educate people in society is that the key to preventing suicide is talking about it. We need to get over the stigma of suicide and be willing to have that awkward conversation and make sure people know that I care about you and I’m noticing changes in you, so I want to make sure you’re okay and this is just the first step in preventing suicide.” Sharp said.

Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in Arkansas, with more than 600 people losing their lives in 2022 alone.

To honor the memory of those lost to suicide, loved ones and supporters filled MacArthur Park to remember, reflect and prevent future incidents.

“Today may be difficult, it may be beautiful. A bond is established and people receive support. So it’s great to see them come out and want to have a voice on suicide prevention,” Sharp said.

“Well, hopefully raising awareness can save more lives. Let’s hope we can. This death is preventable. So, you know, I hope that we can spread the word and know that people are not alone, that there are resources and people that they can reach and that’s why you always matter, you always matter,” said participant Brittany Smith.

“Sometimes it may seem like you’re not doing it, but you promise, you promise, you promise, and when you reach out, it’s different,” Smith said.

The march also offered resources and support to those who have lost loved ones and those who are currently struggling.

“For a long time I didn’t figure this stuff out and I just kept it to myself, but my friend encouraged me to come and it’s really good to be around people who know what you’ve been through and can connect with you and just add comfort you in difficult days,” said participant Fran Maxwell. “I decided that if we knew there was a lie in our head, we should not listen to it. Listen to people who value you, who you know value you and who will be there for you,” said another participant.

The Little Rock Out of the Darkness walk ended with a call to action and a challenge to contact three people with whom you can set up a “Do you have three minutes?” agreeing, vowing to respond to Your call in this moment of crisis.

If you missed this weekend’s event, the Hot Springs Out of the Darkness walk will be held on Saturday, November 9 at National Park College.