Supporting Mental Wellness for Our Community and Ourselves

Content Warning: This article contains discussion of suicide and mental health awareness. 

January is Mental Wellness Month. We spoke with Kim Hatfield, Fort Wayne Out of the Darkness Walk Chair, to learn more about this event and how we can support our mental health during the winter months. 

“You are not alone,” says Kim. “The Out of the Darkness Walk shows people—whether they have struggled with mental health and suicidal ideation themselves or if they have lost someone to suicide—that they are not alone. Beyond fundraising, this event is an opportunity for people to connect with others who have similar experiences and to learn more about the resources available in our community.” 

The Out of the Darkness Walk is an annual event hosted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Organized by local volunteers like Kim, these events are held in cities throughout the nation. The Out of the Darkness Walk raises money to further AFSP’s work, which includes research and education on suicide prevention, as well as support for survivors of suicide loss, and advocacy for key state and federal legislation to fund mental health resources. 

Last month, the YLNI community supported the Out of the Darkness Walk and AFSP by hosting a silent auction holiday fundraiser at the Farmer’s Market. Vendors donated products for attendees to bid on and, together, we raised more than $3,200! These funds will go to support suicide prevention efforts in our Allen County and beyond. 

“We are proud to partner with the Out of the Darkness Walk to support such an important cause,” says Taylor Fisher, YLNI Executive Director. “Community Connectedness is one of YLNI’s core values. Whether you volunteer with us or another organization in our community, we believe your contribution supports meaningful social and community connection.” 

According to the CDC, strong social connections can protect both mental and physical health. Volunteering is a great place to start, and you can learn more about Out of the Darkness Walk volunteer opportunities here. 

There are other ways to support your mental health, too. Here are some of Kim’s tips: 

• Do something for yourself. Self-care is important all year long, but it is crucial during the winter months when many folks face seasonal depression. Whether it’s finding a hobby, taking a bath, or listening to music, find something that helps you reset your mind frame. 
• Reach out to others. Even if it’s just a quick text to say, “Hey, just checking in. I wanted to let you know I’m thinking about you,” reaching out to others can help us feel connected and useful, and it can support the mental well-being of others in our lives. 
• Seek support when you need it. It’s important to care for yourself and your mental health. Remember, hope is real and help is real. Anyone can contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 for confidential support. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing an emotional, behavioral, or mental-health-related crisis, please call or text 988 for support. 988 is the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7. Learn more: 988lifeline.org 

If you would like to learn more about virtual trainings and other suicide prevention resources available for educators, clinicians, and community members, please contact [email protected].

Written by Larissa Whitaker