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Miami-Dade celebrates first mental health walk in commemoration of Mental Health Awareness Month
This Saturday, May 22, Miami-Dade County will celebrate NAMIWalks, our community's first ever Mental Health Walk, in commemoration of May as Mental Health Awareness Month. NAMIWalks is a hybrid event inviting participants to take part in a variety of ways – choosing activities like walking in a small group by the beach or in a park, practicing yoga, or painting. Activities including the opening ceremony will also be live-streamed.
The Thrive305 survey conducted by the Mayor’s office in partnership with the Miami Foundation earlier this year showed that mental health programs ranked as the most important or second-most important service for the remainder of the pandemic for residents under the age of 44. Mental health clinics have also reported more walk-in patients than before.
“As the light at the end of the pandemic grows brighter, we need to pay special attention to the long-lasting effects this crisis has caused for mental health – which might take longer for many to overcome. Too many people have lost their loved ones, struggled with loneliness and isolation, or endured economic hardship and strain on their families,” said Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “Our county is approaching pandemic recovery comprehensively, dedicating resources and special attention to the mental health and emotional wellbeing of all our residents. As more people get vaccinated, we can start spending time together again and offering emotional support to those who suffered the most. To those who are struggling, you are not alone and we encourage you to reach out for help.”
Help is here for anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues:
- Call 2-1-1 for mental health resources
- Visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness Miami Chapter website for support groups and information
- Visit Thriving Mind, which offers care for individuals and families with mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders for uninsured individuals.