Close to 200,000 people across Ireland took part in the annual Darkness Into Light walk this morning.
Darkness Into Light has become global movement against suicide taking place in 202 venues across 19 countries in 5 continents.
People all around the country headed to their local event, which started at 4.15am this morning.
Of course Irish stars were spotted supporting the cause too, with RTE star Jennifer Zamparelli sharing her experience on Instagram.
“5k before 5am all in aid of @pieta.house. What an amazing event and great to see thousands of people there.
“If you are gonna do one thing today on this sunny Saturday please donate to @pieta.house and help them continue to do the fantastic work they do offering support and counseling to those who desperately need it.”
TV3 weather man Deric Hartigan also joined the walk at the Limerick event, sharing photos on Twitter.
To the hundreds of thousands who rose at 3AM this morning across Ireland & the world to keep the conversation on mental health alive. Great to share stories, smiles & shine a positive light from Limerick this Saturday.????????????????♂️#DarknessIntoLight#dil2019 #mentalhealth #limerick pic.twitter.com/wgCEnYpr2W
— Deric Ó hArtagáinTV (@deric_tv) May 11, 2019
And 2FM’s Stephen Byrne broadcast live from the walk this morning, admitting that it is always his “favourite show” to do.
Thanks to everyone who came up to the @rte2fm roadcaster this morning. Truly my favourite show to do. The work of @PietaHouse is invaluable and the conversations #darknessintolight creates unprecedented. It’s ok not to feel ok. pic.twitter.com/MjOWRluUnp
— Stephen Byrne (@stephenbyrne) May 11, 2019
All funds raised through Darkness Into Light will support Pieta to deliver its counselling, therapy and bereavement services across its 15 centres in Ireland, operate its 24-hour suicide helpline (1800 247 247) and contributes to the Resilience Academy programme which supports youth mental health in schools.
Speaking on this morning’s events, Elaine Austin, CEO, Pieta said: “Darkness Into Light unites us as people, from rural communities to major cities, across the globe, in a spirit of comfort and compassion to give and build hope.
“It connects us all, creating the energy for change, in which suicidal thoughts, self-harm and stigma can be replaced by hope, self-care and acceptance. It is vital for the delivery of our services and for raising awareness.”
If you didn’t get a chance to support Darkness Into Light you can still donate; visit www.darknessintolight.ie and click donate.