SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Nearly 2,000 people got together on the campus of Sacramento State University on Thursday for the "Out of the Darkness Walk."
The event aims to bring awareness to mental health and suicide prevention.
"Suicide and mental illness [are] one of those things that's kind of hushed," said Harrison Reynolds. "You don't want to talk about it because you don't want to bring it up because it might be a hard subject to talk about. But this is a hard subject that needs to be talked about."
Reynolds, a senior at Sac State, walked alongside his family in memory of his older brother.
"He took his life three years ago in December. He struggled with it for a long time and, unfortunately, it was just a decision that he made," Reynolds added.
According to statistics, suicide is the second leading cause of death among people ages 15-24.
"Walks like this help bring it into the light so people aren't so uncomfortable talking about it, which can help people that are suffering," Reynolds said.
Reynolds explained the signs of those contemplating suicide aren't always as obvious as many people think.
"It's as simple as not wanting to get up and get out of bed, or not wanting to do your homework and not wanting to hang out with friends," Reynolds added.
If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide, there is help for you. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline 24 hours a day at 1-800-273-8255.
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