Run For Mental Health Aims To End Stigma
Organizers are hoping to build on the success of the 2014 Run For Mental Health this year with the third annual event – Contributed Photo
The event, which will take place May 9 beginning at Kingston Park in Chatham, is hosted by, and will support The Mental Health Network of Chatham-Kent.
“Held during Mental Health Awareness Week each year, Run for Mental Health strives to promote education and awareness around mental illness and works to dispel stigma,” explains The Mental Health Network Program Coordinator Jenny Jackson of the event.
“The Run for Mental Health encourages physical activity; promotes education around mental illness and offers volunteer opportunities in our community,” added Jackson of the event, which donates all money raised to support the programs and members at the Mental Health Network of Chatham-Kent.
For Jackson, and the rest of her team at The Mental Health Network, this race is also an important annual event in helping to raise awareness, and end the stigma of mental health.
“Stigma remains one of the largest obstacles to recovery, treatment and social acceptance for people living with mental illness,” says Jackson.
“Mental illness does not discriminate, but sometimes people do. Stigma and discrimination against those living with mental illness is widespread, it spreads in our schools, work, home, health care and media. It causes shame, prejudice and hopelessness and stops over half of those living with mental illness from seeking treatment. This creates serious personal and social consequences. When shame is removed from the equation, people with mental illness will more readily seek treatment, achieve recovery and engage in meaningful activities,” she continued.
“The goal of this race is to raise awareness of these issues and to begin to change the negative attitudes and perceptions about mental illness by demonstrating that people living with mental illness are everyday people leading meaningful lives.”
Registration information for the Run For Mental Health Chatham race can be fund at www.mhnck.com. As well, those looking for more information can directly contact Jackson at jenny@mhnck.com or by calling 519-351-3100.