logo
Darkness into Light, suicide prevention
May09

Darkness into Light, suicide prevention

Hall Omnisports Luxembourg Clausen
Health - Well-being

Join the Together for Hope Luxembourg (formerly Darkness Into Light) community for the 2026 edition and support suicide and mental illness prevention. This charity event, launched in Ireland in 2009 by the Pieta House association, aims to raise public awareness of mental health issues.

A symbolic journey from darkness to light

The concept behind Together For Hope Luxembourg is deeply symbolic. This charity walk begins before dawn, guiding participants from darkness into daylight, representing the transition from the darkness of mental distress to hope and healing.

At each edition of this solidarity event, several hundred people gather in the middle of the night at the Clausen Omnisports Hall to share this deeply moving walk towards the light, which brings hope. After an inspiring speech by the organizing team, participants set off together at 5 a.m. to walk through the city of Luxembourg.

The walk starts at night. As they make their way along the route, the walkers discover candles and messages of hope to guide them. The highlight is the arrival at the Corniche. This moment is particularly magical as the sun rises and begins to light up the city and the path! Upon their return, participants are welcomed with coffee and sweets to celebrate hope and solidarity with those who suffer in silence.

Last year, more than 600 people walked through the city of Luxembourg. Their participation helps raise awareness about the reality of suicide. In this way, they show their support for those who are suffering. More than €25,000 has been raised in previous years.

A global movement for mental health

Darkness Into Light is much more than a local event. Every year, more than 200,000 people take part in this synchronized walk across more than 200 cities and 20 countries. Founded in Ireland in 2009 by the Pieta House association, this global movement brings together strangers from around the world. Affected directly or indirectly by suicide and mental distress, walkers join a community of support and hope. Whether directly bereaved by the loss of a loved one who saw suicide as the end of their problems, or simply aware of the issue, the walkers of Darkness Into Light and now Together For Hope come together to give hope to those who are experiencing pain in the depths of darkness.

In Luxembourg, Darkness Into Light was organized for the first time in 2019 with the support of the Irish Embassy in Luxembourg. The 9th edition of Darkness Into Light Luxembourg will take place in May 2026. During the last edition, more than 600 people took part in this walk of hope.

The funds raised during the Darkness Into Light walks are essential for financing suicide prevention and mental health support services. For example, in 2024, participants helped to finance 100,000 distress calls and messages, 51,489 hours of counseling, and 6,919 unique therapeutic programs.

The reality of suicide in Luxembourg

Suicide remains a major concern in Luxembourg. According to World Bank data, the suicide mortality rate is 11.2 attempts per 100,000 inhabitants (2019 figures). This indicator is crucial to understanding the scale of the problem in a country where life seems easy and comfortable.

Initiatives such as Darkness Into Light are therefore crucial in breaking the taboos surrounding mental health and encouraging those who are suffering to seek help.

Supporting local suicide prevention associations

Together For Hope is supported in Luxembourg by a dedicated organizing team. The event is held under the High Patronage of Her Royal Highness the Grand Duchess and helps people suffering from mental health issues with the support of the Irish Embassy.

The profits from Together For Hope Luxembourg are donated to local associations dedicated to suicide prevention and psychological support: SOS Détresse - Mir hëllefen iwwer Telefon an online asbl, d'Ligue Santé Mentale and Kanner-Jugendtelefon.

These organizations offer essential services to support people in distress. Hotlines , counseling, and educational programs raise public awareness of the warning signs of suicide.

How to participate in or support Darkness Into Light

This year, there is no pre-registration or registration fee to participate in the Together For Hope walk. However, all donations are welcome.

If you are unable to participate in the walk, you can also support the event by making a donation or volunteering. Every contribution, whether financial or in the form of time, is valuable in supporting this vital cause.

Resources for people in distress

If you or someone you know is going through a difficult time, please do not hesitate to contact the resources available in Luxembourg:

  • SOS Détresse offers a listening ear and confidential support for those in need.

  • Kanner-Jugendtelefon (KJT) offers a helpline dedicated to young people and parents, providing support and advice.

  • d'Ligue: offers various mental health support services for all ages.

Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, and there are many people ready to support you on your journey to well-being.

Together, let's walk toward a brighter future

Participating in Together For Hope is a concrete way to show your support for people in distress and help raise awareness about mental health issues. By walking together, we affirm that even in the darkest moments, there is always a glimmer of hope on the horizon.

For more information and to register, visit the Together For Hope page.

Let's hope that this year, Together For Hope will bring together even more walkers in yellow! Want to support people with paralysis and run with Run In The Dark? More information here.

Françoise Tilly

NOS AUTRES ÉVÉNEMENTS Santé – Bien-être

Guide

Downloadour guide

Settling and integrating successfully in Luxembourg with Just Arrived