In a bid to highlight the growing importance of mental health, NAMI Greater Los Angeles County announced that it would hold its annual NAMIWalks event on May 22, 2021. The event will be a part of the Mental Health Awareness Month.
This will be the first time that the walk is going virtual since its inception. The safer-at-home restrictions have neccesiated such changes but the organisers are expecting a huge turnout. The theme of this year’s event will be NAMIWalks Your Way.
The ongoing global pandemic has posed a serious threat to mental health as self-isolation and quarantine have become the accepted norm. Millions of people around the globe are struggling to cope with the anxiety and stress heaped on their mental health. Additionally, people who require medical help and attention to manage their problems have not been able to access such services.
Through its annual program, NAMIWalks wants to bring such people together and help them on their road to recovery. Davi Weber, NAMIWalks Manager, said that the annual event brings together all those willing to help remove the stigma associated with mental illness and instead make a difference in the lives of those suffering from the debilitating disease. “With the event going virtual this year, we hope it gives people an opportunity to get creative as to how they participate,” he added.
NAMI Greater Los Angeles County will be hosting the event in partnership with HealthNet. The latter had chosen this year’s annual event to endorse its support and stance towards mental health.
NAMIWalks Los Angeles County is the largest annual mental health advocay event in Sounthern California and is a major contributor towards free programs and services for people with mental illnesses. The event will also include messages from Los Angeles City Mayor, Eric Garcetti, County Supervisor, Kathryn Barger and the Director of the LA County Department of Mental Health, Dr Jonathan Sherin.
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