DAPHNE, Ala. (WALA) - Beautiful blue skies served as the perfect walking weather on Sunday.

In fact, hundreds of people strapped on their shoes for the Out of the Darkness Walk. More than just a casual stroll, it's a time to remember those who have lost their lives to suicide and shed light on mental health.

Click here to learn more about the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention or to make a donation to AFSP

Lydia Barber, the event organizer, says she unexpectedly lost her son to suicide.

"We lost our son Allen in October of 2010," said Barber. "He was a student in college. We knew he struggled, but we had no idea the depth."

Since then, Barber has spent over a decade serving as a megaphone for suicide awareness and prevention. She started the first Out of the Darkness Walk in Daphne 13 years ago.

"I learned a lot more after he died," she added. "It's good to learn things."

Walkers congregated outside of Daphne's City Hall. An array of free suicide awareness and mental health resources were readily available.

Many participants tell FOX10 News they are walking for a friend or a family member they lost to suicide, while others are walking in victory for themselves.

"Often times, no one knows the signs. So we're here to support the community. Silent killer because of the embarrassment, the shame, the stigma it may be- we don't want to talk about it," said one walking group.

Keiren Hass and Arthur Moris of Robertsdale High School say their peers are no strangers to the struggles of mental health.

"With all social media and stuff like that, and just bullying in general, it can affect middle school, high school, college students-- everyone," said Hass.

There was also a mural for people who died from suicide with heartfelt love letters to those who have passed on. Those very faces are members of our own community.

The Jordan family says this is their first time coming to the walk. "

"Just to raise awareness. It's very surprising-- especially the numbers when you walk in and see it on the signs."

The heartbeat of the walk is breaking the stigma by walking in the public eye and taking up space for a heartbreaking subject.

"We lost my husband- his father about 14 years ago, and we've been going strong ever since then. We just want everyone to know it's okay to talk about it," said Heather Corbin and Phenix Rucker.

Long after walking shoes have been taken off, Barber says the momentum needs to keep going. It's as easy as step one...just take the time to ask how someone is doing.

"People are not doing as well as you think they are doing," Barber stated. "If you think someone is struggling, think you're the only person that's going to go up to them and ask them how they are."