MUNCIE, Ind. — Most people would answer with cancer or heart disease if asked what they thought the leading cause of death was. While those people wouldn’t be wrong, there’s another answer that is so often overlooked. An answer that people like Nia Townsend are trying to bring attention to.
After Townsend’s cousin died by suicide, it would make perfect sense if she tried to stay away from the topic. No one would blame her. But in her case, she used it as an opportunity to end stigmas and bring a larger issue to light.
Townsend, a Ball State graduate, joined the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and alongside fellow Cardinal Tyra Stephens, quickly realized something that didn’t sit right with her.
“We got involved initially in Indianapolis because the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention does a walk in early September for it’s Indiana chapter,” Townsend said. “Then we we’re like, ‘this would be a great idea to bring this walk to Ball State’s campus’ because they had been at Purdue, I’d been to Butler walks, IU has walks so Ball State should have one too.”
So together with Stephens, Townsend set up the Ball State Out of Darkness Walk. Not only does this walk act as a fundraiser, but it also allows the Muncie community to learn more about a topic they might not be familiar with.
“It brings people together and gets them talking about some of the things that might feel a little bit awkward but really should be talked about,” said Townsend.
Not only does it help teach those who are not aware of mental health struggles, but it also offers a place for those affected by those struggles to remember.
“It’s also a walk to honor those who may be struggling with mental health, who know someone struggling with mental health, and it’s a great place to get resources and know what’s out there,” added Townsend.
All told, 71 people participated in the walk which raised over $6,700. For Townsend, it’s more than the money raised though. It’s a reminder that, as she puts it, “we’re here for you, we’re in support, we need you.”
If you or a loved one that you know are struggling with your mental health, you are encouraged to text or call 988.
Contact Jake Dickman with comments at jacob.dickman@bsu.edu.
