More and more, we’re seeing groups make efforts to raise awareness for mental illness. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is an organization doing its part to reduce the stigma of mental illness, and these efforts are never more visible than in their regional events, called NAMI Walks.
At the Florida House Experience, we understand the importance of getting quality treatment for mental health. We those with mental health disorders alongside our work with people struggling with addiction to drugs and alcohol, and those co-occurring disorders. If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse or mental health, don’t wait. Explore our home page for more information about how to get the treatment you need in a comfortable, supportive environment.
What Are NAMI Walks?
NAMI has taken steps to raise awareness for mental health disorders and show people that struggle with their mental health that they aren’t as alone as they might feel. According to NAMI’s numbers, nearly 20 percent of the population experiences a mental health disorder in a given year. Many of these are chronic, with about 4 percent being listed as “severe”.
The negative? Mental illness is still undertreated, even with a growing number of resources. Just over half of the people who struggle with their mental health at a given time get the treatment they need. Part of the reason for this is the stigma placed on dealing with these disorders: people just don’t talk about it.
NAMI Walks are events with a 5k walking course that get the local community together and talking about mental illness. These events occur all over the country, calling cities and regional areas to action in the battle to raise awareness.
In its 16th year doing these events, NAMI helps bring those who may feel the most alone to a place where they can talk to others to gain support, and hear from people who might be going through some of the same things they are.
Here’s how Florida House is working with NAMI to make these crucial events as successful as possible:
West Palm Beach NAMI Walk
We’re excited to announce that the West Palm NAMI Walk on October 27th, 2018 was a huge success. Many members of the local community came out and showed their support, as well as shared their stories about getting help for their mental health disorders.
FHE was excited to be present, contributing in any way we could. We had employee volunteers getting involved and donating water, as well as some speaking on the importance of access to affordable, effective treatment for mental health issues.
Broward NAMI Walk
On November 10, we’re proud to be able to sponsor a NAMI walk in our community. As a NAMI Walk sponsor, we will be able to offer financial support to the event, as well as offer employee volunteers to assist the organizers in making sure the event is a success.
Why NAMI Walks Are Important
With these walks, as well as others around the country, we have the unique opportunity to offer support to people in South Florida who may be feeling like they don’t have any options when it comes to seeking treatment for their mental health disorder.
This is NAMI’s mission as well as the mission at FHE, which is why we’re so eager to get involved with these events in our community. At our facility, we offer comprehensive treatment to those with mental health disorders.
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction or a mental health disorder, contact us today, and see how Florida House Experience has the tools to support lifelong recovery.