LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Lexington community gathered on Saturday afternoon for the third annual “Out of the Darkness” walk, an event aimed at fostering dialogue around mental health issues. Participants came together to create a safe space for discussing struggles, losses, and emotional well-being.
Held at a local site in the city, the walk attracted a crowd united in their commitment to support mental health awareness. Attendees included individuals like Nick Archer, who emphasized the importance of bringing mental health challenges into the spotlight. “We need to bring the idea that people aren’t okay sometimes to light, and help people through that,” Archer stated.
Returning for her second year, Roxy Bryant shared her insights on the progress the event has made in connecting community members. “This is a group of community that we all come together to openly talk about losses and struggles together and all come together as one,” she remarked. Having faced her own battles with mental illness, Bryant dedicated her participation to both herself and her loved ones, while also aspiring to inspire others.
The event served as a platform for attendees to honor friends and family members, as well as to advocate for mental health. Participants echoed a shared message: the importance of reaching out to someone to talk. “It doesn’t have to be a professional. Even if it’s a best friend, a family member, or a co-worker. Just somebody you can open up with and talk with,” Bryant emphasized. “Talking away the dark is the best way to get the darkness out of you.”
By walking together, each participant aimed to bring light to their own experiences and support others who may be struggling. The gathering reflected a growing recognition of the critical need for community support in mental health.
The “Out of the Darkness” walk continues to help shine a light on mental health, encouraging open discussions about often-hidden challenges while building a sense of community among visitors. The event illustrated a powerful commitment to making mental health a visible and valued topic within the Lexington area.
