Last year's Darkness into Light event raised enough money to provide 52,000 hours of therapy for vulnerable people in Ireland. 

That is according to mental health charity Pieta, which has today launched its campaign to highlight the 16th edition of the nationwide event which will take place on the 11th of May.

Over 100,000 people are expected to take part this year with 230 walks organised in all four corners of the island.

The walks will begin at 4.15am and are done in support of those dealing with suicide and self-harm.

Darkness into light at the Phoneix Park in 2017. Image: Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland

Pieta CEO Stephanie Managan told Newstalk that every euro raised will go towards vital, life-saving work.

“Even though it is acknowledging something so challenging and so heavy, it actually is a very-very positive, joyful, and spiritual event that people that can join us on,” she said.

“It really is a very special morning.

“The funds that are raised through darkness into light make sure that we are here when people need us to be here.

“And that at any time of the day or night, anyone can access services and somebody at the end of the phone to answer a call, to answer a text and to be there.”

Pieta House contact lines:

24-hour freephone crisis helpline: 1800 247 247

Therapy Services team: 0818 111 126

Text counselling: Text HELP to 51444

Main image: Darkness into Light participants in Greystones, 2021. Image: Andres Poveda