Thank you to all of the Team Captains for their leadership and fundraising efforts for the 2024 Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk! There's still time to create a team and #WalkWithUs on Sept. 1th. Register at afsp.org/Chicago #TopTeams #ChiWalk24 #PreventSuicide

HOPE WALKS HERE Sign up for one of the OOTD Campus Walks in Illinois at afsp.org/ILCampus #AFSPIL #HOPE #StopSuicide

#OutOfTheDarkness Campus Walks are similar to our Community Walks, but happen at high schools, colleges, and universities nationwide in the spring. Find an Illinois Campus Walk event near you to join the movement! All are welcome. afsp.org/ILCampus

Workplaces can be a central part of our everyday lives and losing a coworker to suicide can deeply impact employees’ workplace mental health making it crucial for employers to offer professional support after the loss of a colleague. Learn more: afsp.org/workplacepostv….

Ready to lead? Become a Team Captain for the Chicagoland Out of the Darkness Walk! You'll inspire others, set goals, and guide your team to success. Start by looking at Team Central for tips & ideas. Register as a Team Captain and #WalkWithUs on 9/27/25 afsp.org/Chicago

The AFSP Illinois Chapter was honored to receive 4 awards at the 2025 Chapter Leadership Conference. Learn more about these awards and our work in our latest newsletter: ow.ly/AscB50V8j8A

You're invited to make a difference. Walk with us to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention. #WalkWithUs at the Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk on September 27th. No registration fee. Raise $150 and earn an official walk t-shirt. afsp.org/CHICAGO

It’s okay to not be okay.

Her father's mental health struggles were at the forefront of Erika’s memories until years later when her perspective changed. “I choose not to summarize his life as the hopelessness that ultimately led him to end his life that day.” Read: afsp.org/story/father-s…

You are not your diagnosis or the symptoms you experience. You are not “a bipolar” or “a schizophrenic”. You may have a diagnosis but who you are is, a person worthy of love, and capable of recovery. You are not broken. You are not damaged. And you are not alone. #StopSuicide

It's okay if your grieving journey looks and feels different than others. Focus on yourself and give yourself grace during this difficult time.💙 For resources for survivors of suicide loss, visit afsp.org/suicideloss

When grief asks a lot of us, we must remember to recharge. Rest allows us to find our strength again. 🌱🫂 Find a #SurvivorDay event near you to connect with suicide loss survivors and find understanding and hope through your shared experience. Register: afsp.org/survivorday

Give yourself grace and trust that healing takes time. ⏳💙 Join a #SurvivorDay event in your community where survivors of suicide loss come together to find connection, understanding, and hope through their shared experience. Register at afsp.org/survivorday.

We hope you'll join us for the Illinois Virtual Statewide International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day on Sunday, Nov. 23, from 1–3:30 p.m. CT via Zoom. Learn more and register at chicago-illinois3.isosld.afsp.org.

"The holiday season can be especially difficult for loss survivors, underscoring the importance of activities that promote healing. 💙 What has supported your healing and growth in your grief journey?"

"There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn't." —John Green

Everyone has different needs, and that means our holidays won't look exactly the same. Give yourself grace to spend the season in whatever way fills your cup first. 🫶

Even on the toughest days, remember that your life is worth fighting for. #YourLifeMatters

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health! 🧠💙💪

AFSP Illinois is incredibly proud to announce that our 2025 Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk has been recognized as the #1 Fundraising Walk nationwide — for the 16th consecutive year!