Thousands to Walk 16 Miles in Chicago for Mental Health Awareness Event
On the evening of June 13, 2026, Chicago will host a significant event aimed at raising awareness for mental health and suicide prevention—the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's (AFSP) flagship event, The Overnight. This year marks a special occasion as it returns to the city after a 17-year hiatus. Starting and ending at the iconic Navy Pier, nearly 2,000 participants are expected to embark on a 16-mile walk along the shores of Lake Michigan. This powerful journey, which lasts from dusk until dawn, aims to elevate the conversation around suicide and mental health, bringing these often-taboo topics into the spotlight.
The Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk creates a safe and supportive atmosphere where individuals can share their experiences, fostering both personal healing and community engagement. The funds raised during this event are vital for supporting AFSP’s mission to advance scientific research, enhance public understanding of mental health, advocate for critical public policies, and provide assistance to those impacted by suicide.
Robert Gebbia, the CEO of AFSP, highlighted the significance of this gathering by stating, “The Overnight offers a community of support where hope and healing are fundamental to the experience.” Participants typically dedicate months to fundraising and training for this event. In the previous year, the walk raised nearly $3.1 million, demonstrating the unwavering commitment of its supporters.
This return to Chicago has special meaning for many walkers who have personal stories connected to mental health. For instance, Tina Smith from Kansas City is commemorating a significant personal milestone during the walk. Having survived a suicide attempt in 1996, she is walking for the first time in The Overnight, along with her daughter, to honor the life she has rebuilt through managing her bipolar disorder. She reflects on the event as a ‘safe haven’ where vital stories are told, and true healing occurs.
Another participant, Brian Siegel from Chicago, is joining the fold for his 17th Overnight. His motivation stems from a poignant personal experience—he once intervened to save a woman during a suicide attempt. Now, as a dedicated fundraiser, he walks not only for himself but for those he has lost to suicide.
Suzie and Ben DeAvila are also stepping out for their first Overnight Walk in an effort to break stigma surrounding mental health in families. Having recently learned of their daughter’s struggles with severe anxiety and depression, they hope their unified walk will inspire others to seek help and discuss mental health openly.
Tammy Hunter, who has faced multiple losses in her life, will also participate for the first time. After losing her mother, father, son, and best friend to suicide, she founded an organization called Beyond the Pain to provide support to others in similar situations. The event offers her a channel to transform her grief into advocacy.
The kick-off ceremony on the evening of June 13 promises to be an emotional gathering, set against the backdrop of a beautiful Chicago sunset. Following a night of walking and community bonding, a moving closing ceremony will wrap the event on June 14, with illuminated luminaria symbolizing lives altered by suicide, creating a poignant visual tribute for participants.
Those interested in joining this impactful experience can still register at TheOvernight.org. Members of the media are invited to cover the event, capturing the essence of hope through various activities and personal stories shared during the walk.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness and works tirelessly to save lives while supporting those who are affected by suicide. With chapters across the United States and programs designed to help individuals navigate their mental health challenges, AFSP remains committed to fostering a culture that understands and prioritizes mental well-being. Check out their platform on social media for more information about suicide prevention and the ongoing conversation surrounding mental health.
The Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk creates a safe and supportive atmosphere where individuals can share their experiences, fostering both personal healing and community engagement. The funds raised during this event are vital for supporting AFSP’s mission to advance scientific research, enhance public understanding of mental health, advocate for critical public policies, and provide assistance to those impacted by suicide.
Robert Gebbia, the CEO of AFSP, highlighted the significance of this gathering by stating, “The Overnight offers a community of support where hope and healing are fundamental to the experience.” Participants typically dedicate months to fundraising and training for this event. In the previous year, the walk raised nearly $3.1 million, demonstrating the unwavering commitment of its supporters.
This return to Chicago has special meaning for many walkers who have personal stories connected to mental health. For instance, Tina Smith from Kansas City is commemorating a significant personal milestone during the walk. Having survived a suicide attempt in 1996, she is walking for the first time in The Overnight, along with her daughter, to honor the life she has rebuilt through managing her bipolar disorder. She reflects on the event as a ‘safe haven’ where vital stories are told, and true healing occurs.
Another participant, Brian Siegel from Chicago, is joining the fold for his 17th Overnight. His motivation stems from a poignant personal experience—he once intervened to save a woman during a suicide attempt. Now, as a dedicated fundraiser, he walks not only for himself but for those he has lost to suicide.
Suzie and Ben DeAvila are also stepping out for their first Overnight Walk in an effort to break stigma surrounding mental health in families. Having recently learned of their daughter’s struggles with severe anxiety and depression, they hope their unified walk will inspire others to seek help and discuss mental health openly.
Tammy Hunter, who has faced multiple losses in her life, will also participate for the first time. After losing her mother, father, son, and best friend to suicide, she founded an organization called Beyond the Pain to provide support to others in similar situations. The event offers her a channel to transform her grief into advocacy.
The kick-off ceremony on the evening of June 13 promises to be an emotional gathering, set against the backdrop of a beautiful Chicago sunset. Following a night of walking and community bonding, a moving closing ceremony will wrap the event on June 14, with illuminated luminaria symbolizing lives altered by suicide, creating a poignant visual tribute for participants.
Those interested in joining this impactful experience can still register at TheOvernight.org. Members of the media are invited to cover the event, capturing the essence of hope through various activities and personal stories shared during the walk.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness and works tirelessly to save lives while supporting those who are affected by suicide. With chapters across the United States and programs designed to help individuals navigate their mental health challenges, AFSP remains committed to fostering a culture that understands and prioritizes mental well-being. Check out their platform on social media for more information about suicide prevention and the ongoing conversation surrounding mental health.
Topics Health）
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