Darkness Into Light Brussels 2020: Third march to raise awareness of suicide and self-harm on 9 May

The Irish Embassy launched the Brussels edition of the global suicide prevention movement Darkness Into Light 2020 on Tuesday evening.

It announced that registration was open for the third edition of the event at Brussels’ Cinquantenaire park on 9 May at 04.15.

In 2019 (pictured), almost 900 people gathered before dawn in the Brussels park and walked a 5km route, from the darkness into the light, symbolising the journey from despair to hope. The money they raised supported Centrum ter Preventie van Zelfdoding and Centre de prévention du Suicide in Brussels and Pieta House in Ireland.

Founded by Pieta House in Ireland, Darkness Into Light is a worldwide mental health movement dedicated to ending suicide and supporting those who self-harm.

For 2020, Darkness Into Light Brussels is working with Mental Health Europe and the MEP Alliance for Mental Health, and will be donating all of its fundraising efforts to Belgian charity partners.

Belgium has one of the highest suicide rates in the world - six deaths a day – 2,000 a year. The suicide attempt rate in the country is estimated to be 20 times higher, with 120 people needing help every day.

Speaking ahead of the event, EU Commissioner and patron of Darkness Into light Brussels, Phil Hogan said: “This powerful global gathering raises awareness and funds to help break the stigma around mental health, self-harm and suicide. I would strongly encourage everyone to support this important and inspirational event”. 

Irish ambassador Helena Nolan said: “We all need to take better care of our mental health; this includes openness and honesty about the challenges we can all face, acceptance and understanding of anyone going through those challenges and above all being kind. The Embassy is honoured to co-host the launch event again this year and hope to see even bigger participation in this year’s walk.” 

Speaking at the launch, Anne McKeown – who lost her son to suicide – reflected on the impact of her family’s loss. “There was no explanation…no note…no warning. Suicide doesn’t just happen to others. That’s why we really have to look out for the people we love and ask the questions. I wish I had asked more questions,” she said.