Published June 24, 2021
By MAUREEN DOHERTY
NORTH READING — In an effort to bring hope and support to those affected by suicide or struggling with their mental health, North Reading Youth Services is hosting an “Out of the Darkness Walk” this Saturday, June 26 from 5 to 6 p.m.
Participating is easy, according to Youth Services Director Jen Ford as all one needs to do is go for a walk anywhere throughout town for that hour while wearing a color-coded t-shirt to signify whom you’re supporting.
The color code
The colors represented on the walk are: White: Loss of a child; Red: Loss of a spouse or partner; Gold: Loss of a parent; Orange: Loss of a sibling; Purple: Loss of a relative or friend; Silver: Loss of a first responder or military; Green: A personal struggle or attempt; Teal: Supporting someone who struggles or has attempted; Blue: Supporting suicide prevention.
Anyone in crisis may contact one of several hotlines available 24/7, including:
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. Confidential support for all ages 24/7
• The Samaritans: Call or text anonymously 1-877-870-4673.
• TrevorLifeline: Crisis intervention and suicide prevention 24/7 for LGBTQ youths under 25: 1-866-488-7386 or text “START” to 678-678 to start a text conversation with this resource.
• Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 then Press 1 or text to 838255. To chat online go to: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help/chat.
