Charleston Community Gathers for 11th Annual Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk

Blue and Teal Fill Slack Plaza for Annual Gathering

A sea of blue and teal filled the streets of Charleston at Slack Plaza on Saturday as hundreds of community members, survivors, and advocates gathered to bring suicide awareness out of the darkness. The 11th annual Out of the Darkness Walk, hosted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, brought together people remembering loved ones and those affected by suicide.

For Walk Chair Tara Miller, the cause is deeply personal. Miller became involved after her brother, Todd, died by suicide in 2023, turning a family tragedy into a dedicated mission to help others.

Sometimes we have to get behind that smile and truly ask someone, ‘How are you feeling?’

Miller noted that about 85% of the money raised in West Virginia stays right within the state, directly supporting AFSP research, advocacy, and education programs.

Understanding the Stakes and State Statistics

The urgency behind Saturday’s gathering is underscored by recent public health data. Suicide remains the second leading cause of death in West Virginia for individuals aged 10 to 34. Funds raised at the event directly support educational programs in schools, workplaces, and communities across the state.

Official figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that West Virginia recorded 303 deaths by suicide in 2024. That figure marks a decline from the 349 deaths recorded in 2023, with the state’s age-adjusted rate dropping from 18.6 to 16.4 deaths per 100,000 people.

Crystal Berenson attended Saturday’s walk to remember Andrew, a man she described as someone who loved life but still struggled. She shared a simple message for anyone facing similar battles: hoping they find help and know that they matter.

Personal Recovery and Broad Community Support

The event drew diverse personal perspectives, including survivor Molly Bing, who has navigated mental health battles throughout her adult life and carries the heartbreak of losing her nephew to suicide. Bing recalled experiencing overwhelming feelings of worthlessness during her darkest moments, noting how vital immediate crisis resources and local care networks have been to her ongoing recovery.

Charleston Community Gathers for 11th Annual Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk — Photo: wsaz.com

Participating advocates also highlighted how overlapping public health issues compound the crisis. Kriston Vanhorn, who works with the Problem Gambling Help Network of West Virginia, pointed out that gambling addiction has the highest rate of suicide among any other addiction, bridging professional advocacy with personal losses among family and friends.

Participants utilized the gathering to remind the public that immediate, confidential support is available year-round. Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.