A summer tradition since 2016, The Race of Hope returns as an in-person event after going virtual during the pandemic.
On Sunday, August 8, 2021, Hope for Depression Research Foundation (HDRF) will hold its Sixth Annual 5K Race of Hope to Defeat Depression in Southampton Village.
HDRF is the leading non-profit dedicated solely to advanced depression research.
The mission of HDRF is to fund cutting-edge neuroscience research into the origins, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of depression and other related mood disorders. This non-profit has invested over $35 million in advanced depression research to date.
Did you know? In the United States, depression affects over 20-million adults each year, which is one in every ten adults.
Last year the race, a walk/run that attracts hundreds of participants from the tri-state area, went virtual due to COVID restrictions.
This year’s in person event marks a careful return to “more-normal,” with specific measures such as staggered heats and required masks at the starting line to keep everybody safe.
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Did you know? 50% of those diagnosed with depression do not fully respond to existing treatments.
“We are so excited to be able to gather again in person for this event that raises mental health awareness and critical funds for depression research,” said HDRF Founder and Chair Audrey Gruss, a Southampton resident.
Gruss founded the organization in 2006 in memory of her mother, Hope, who struggled with depression.
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“Humans are wired to need warm social interaction. The isolation of the pandemic has taken a large toll on the nation’s mental health.”
Did you know? Depression is the leading cause of suicide. In the United States, one person dies by suicide every 11 minutes, which is over 47,000 people per year.
Gruss noted surveys showing that over one third of Americans are struggling with depression and anxiety in the wake of the pandemic.
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“As a society we are just beginning to identify the impact of the past 16 months. Understanding and developing treatments for these mental disorders is therefore critically important, and that is what this race makes possible.”
Gruss is a Co-Grand Marshal of the race along with East Hampton resident Arthur Dunnam. They will lead participants on a beautiful 5K (3.1 mile) loop around Lake Agawam in Southampton Village.
Did you know? Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide.
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The race is open to all ages and speeds and walkers are welcome. The event has grown quickly over the years, with 750 participants in 2019.
This year, organizers expect hundreds of participants, up to a maximum allowance of 500, per New York State guidelines.
Did you know? In 35 years since the introduction of Prozac and other SSRI antidepressants, there has been almost no change in the treatment of depression.
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The Race of Hope has raised over $1 million for research since its inception in 2016.
The race this year will still offer a virtual component for the thousands of racers who have embraced the cause and want to participate but live far away.
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Did you know? Although depression is one of the most serious and prevalent conditions in the US, it is ranked 77th (out of 250) in the amount of federal funding it receives.
Participants will still have the option to sign up and complete the distance in their own hometowns.
Did you know? Depression costs society $210 billion annually—60% of which represents reduced efficiency at work and costs related to suicide.
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These racers will also have a chance to share their stories and cheer each other through a special interactive live program broadcast by HDRF over social media on the morning of the actual race.
Did you know? Most of the major pharmaceutical companies have discontinued brain research.
HDRF won’t stop until they find new treatments and methods to prevent depression. Join the fight!
In-Person Registration Information:
Virtual Registration Information:
If you or someone you know are experiencing suicidal thoughts call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to talk to a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area.
Photography by: Sourced from HDRF
