NAMI raises mental health awareness with annual walk and fair
Times LeaderMay 21, 2018
Instead, they were just looking to raise awareness for mental health.
The local chapter of the
Walkers gathered in downtown
According to
Fedak made it clear that the event was not a fundraiser, but rather just a way to get the group's message out there.
"It's to raise awareness for the general public and making sure people know they aren't alone," he said.
Fedak said the group offers numerous support meetings each month throughout the area, both for those who are suffering from a mental illness and for family members who are seeking to be supportive of their loved ones.
"These classes are evidence-based and run by trained facilitators," he said, adding that they're also free and open to the public.
After marching into
Shortly into the fair,
Doyle said he was diagnosed at the age of 15 with schizoaffective disorder. After some trying times, he said he was able to begin working through his recovery. He said part of this is owed to creating a mission statement for himself, something he encouraged others to do.
"'I will take charge of my recovery and not give up,'" Doyle said he repeats to himself. After speaking, he told a reporter that he loves helping people in situations similar to his, adding that it's "so important" that people seek out the help they need.
"Recovery is possible," he affirmed.
Fedak said NAMI is hosting other events, including this week a screening of the film "The Valley," a film that he said examines the role of anxiety and depression in a person's life.
The screening, which will be held on Wednesday at the F.M. Kirby Center, will begin at
Reach
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