NAMI Western Mass walkathon raises funds for mental health

The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Western Mass held its 26th annual walk-a-thon today. 22 News reporter Retta Odiah has how the event is bringing awareness to those who face mental health challenges. The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Western Mass . also known as NAMI . is all about meeting people where they're at. We are here to try to end the stigma and to get people to open up and to talk about their mental health because a lot of people are struggling. And we're actually trying to be here as the light in their darkness. Not only through their services and support groups, but NAMI's 26th annual walk-a-thon fundraiser is just a time for the community to come together to openly talk about mental illness. The organization has been dealing with some funding challenges. They're now open just twice a week. Despite this, they say it doesn't stop them from helping as many people as they can. The education that we offer in the community, the advocacy, we'll go down to Boston and advocate for those who are living with behavioral health conditions because who else is doing that? Our very own 22 News Storm Team Meteorologist Adam Stremko was the emcee, sharing his support for such a great cause. I'm glad the weather's cooperating, of course, and the walk's going to be great. There's a lot of other activities going on. It's such an important thing because there are so many people that are suffering from mental illness. Those in attendance got to enjoy food, bubbles, raffles, and some entertainment that can be used as an escape during a tough time. It can really help with mindfulness. We have to remember to breathe and take our time as we're going. We create the pace. No matter how many times we drop the ball, we can always pick it right back up and get back on into it. Working for you, Aretha Odaya, 22 News.