U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — The Virgin Islands Department of Health’s Behavioral Health Division is inviting the public to join its “Walk for Hope,” a series of community walks scheduled for throughout September in recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
“Suicide prevention begins with creating communities where people know they are seen, valued and supported,” said Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion. “Sometimes the most important thing we can do is simply show up for one another, to listen, to reach out and to remind someone that they do not have to face a difficult time alone. We invite the entire community to join us as we walk together in hope.”
Walk for Hope will take place 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on the following dates:
- St. Croix — Thursday, Sept. 10 | Frederiksted, Marley Housing Community to the Clock Tower on Strand Street
- St. John — Thursday, Sept. 17 | Cruz Bay, Bandstand to Dolphin Market
- St. Thomas — Thursday, Sept. 24 | Charlotte Amalie, Roy L Schiender Hospital to Alexander Farrelly Courthouse
“These walks are about showing up for each other, whether that means supporting someone who is struggling, honoring those we’ve lost, or simply reminding our neighbors that they are not alone,” said Renan Steele, Deputy Commissioner of Behavioral Health and Environmental Health. “Connection and community are some of our strongest tools in suicide prevention.”
Residents are encouraged to bring family, friends, coworkers and community groups to walk on their island. The events are open to the public, and no registration is required.
Following each walk, participants are invited to share their experiences with mental health challenges, recovery, supporting a loved one, coping with loss, or finding hope during a difficult time. Sharing is entirely voluntary. The Behavioral Health Division hopes these conversations will help reduce stigma and remind residents that mental health challenges affect people from all walks of life.
Throughout Suicide Prevention Month, the Behavioral Health Division is encouraging residents to recognize when someone may need support, have open conversations about mental health, and strengthen connections among families, friends, workplaces and communities.
“A simple check-in — a conversation, a listening ear, or the question “Are you okay?” — can help someone who is struggling to feel heard and supported,” Steele said.
Anyone experiencing a mental health, suicide or substance-use crisis can call or text or 988 or chat to 988lifeline.org.
“Walk for Hope” carries a simple but important message for anyone facing a difficult season: Your story isn’t over yet.
For more information about Walk for Hope and other Behavioral Health Division activities, visit the Virgin Islands Department of Health website and follow VIDOH on social media.