In Ohio State, over 400 students, staff, and faculty recently took part in the fifth annual Out of the Darkness Campus Walk. The event aimed to show support for those dealing with mental health issues and to destigmatize conversations around mental health. Organized in collaboration with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the walk took place at the RPAC.
Before embarking on a walk to the Oval and back, participants listened to guest speakers. The Out of the Darkness Campus Walk was also a fundraising event that successfully raised over $20,000. Each regional campus hosted its own walk to raise awareness about mental health issues. Participants were encouraged to cross the finish line together with friends, family, and even strangers to emphasize that no one has to face mental health challenges alone.
Kathleen Adams, a Peers REACHing Out member, emphasized the importance of events like this. She highlighted that healing is possible and these events provide a platform for individuals to come together in support of one another. Adams urged participants to take away a message of hope and healing from such events.
