Walking across Iceland for mental health: Bergur’s powerful journey
This summer, Bergur Vilhjálmsson, a Reykjavík firefighter and ambulance worker, will undertake a powerful journey to raise awareness for mental health. Starting at Goðafoss and traveling to Reykjavík, he’ll cross the vast wilderness of Sprengisandur, pulling a 100-kilogram sled behind him.
The walk is part of a campaign to support the Pieta organization, which provides help for people struggling with suicidal thoughts and emotional crises. Bergur’s trek will be documented in a film titled "The Step" (Skrefið), created in collaboration with Pieta for use in their mental health prevention work.
Photo/Sent to mbl.is
Turning pain into purpose
This is not Bergur’s first endurance trek—last year, he completed a 100-kilometer walk with a 100-kg sled, and the emotional response from the public motivated him to do more.
“I felt how much this had a big impact on people, both those I know and others. It inspired me to continue,” Bergur told mbl.is .
Working in emergency services, Bergur witnesses firsthand the toll mental distress takes on individuals and families. He estimates that one in four emergency calls he responds to is related to mental health struggles.
Bergur will have a 100-kilogram trailer in tow that will hold his supplies. Photo/Sent to mbl.is
A route with deeper meaning
Originally considering a walk along Highway 1, Bergur changed his plans due to safety concerns and found that Sprengisandur, with its desolate, demanding terrain, carried deep symbolism.
“It’s just a wasteland out there,” he says. “I think it reflects what many people feel when they’re in mental distress—that they’re all alone. But Pieta is trying to show people they’re not.”
Supporting men’s mental health
A key part of Bergur’s message is encouraging men to seek help, breaking the silence that too often surrounds their struggles.
“It’s important that they’re not just walking alone through these difficulties and taking everything on themselves,” he says.
Filmmakers will accompany Bergur on his journey and a documentary will be made about the effort, which Bergur estimates will take about 14 days. The film is being made in collaboration with PIETA and will be used in the organization's prevention work. Photo/Sent to mbl.is
A story that lives beyond the trek
Director Teitur Magnússon will lead the filming of The Step , working alongside producer Haraldur Bender and production company Andvaka. The documentary is intended to prolong the public conversation about mental health, which often fades after awareness campaigns end.
“The goal is to extend the impact,” says Bergur. “We want to keep the momentum going.”
He has already met with the Ministry of Health to explore opportunities for official support.
The journey begins on July 7, and you can follow Bergur’s preparations and walk on Instagram at @skrefid2025 .
If you need help
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, you are not alone . Support is available:
- Pieta Organization : 552-2218
- Red Cross Helpline (1717) or online at 1717.is
- Heilsuvera nurse chat : heilsuvera.is
- Grief support (for those who’ve lost someone): Grief Center 551-4141 or Pieta Association 552-2218
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