NAMI Walks, A Recognized Community Event

Every year, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, known locally as NAMI Billings, brings together hundreds of people to raise mental health awareness and funds through NAMIWalks Montana. This year presents new challenges, so NAMIWalks is “going virtual.”

On Sunday, September 20th, our NAMI Billings Beautiful Minds team will participate in NAMIWalks Your Way: A National Day of Hope. Instead of walking a 5k together at Helena, MT, participants will choose an activity of their choice and join virtually with other NAMI affiliates throughout MT.

Many participants still plan to walk, using their treadmill or going outside in their backyard or to a local park—all while taking precautions to stay safe.  There have been rumors that some may hula hoop or flip pancakes or practice yoga.  It is hopeful that pictures of activities in support of mental health and wellness will be posted on our NAMI Billings website at www.namibillings.org.

According to Sheryl Scheafer, President of NAMI Billings, “One in five adults experience mental illness, but it touches five in five people either directly or indirectly. This year we are already seeing an increased demand for mental health services; and, now more than ever, our communities need to come together to raise awareness and let people know they are not alone.  Our walk slogan ‘Mental Health for All’ has never been truer.”

To help NAMI Billings continue to offer free local mental health programs and services, please visit our NAMI Billings Beautiful Minds fundraising page at www.namiwalks.org/team/35477.   There is no registration fee but fundraising is encouraged.  Funds raised support NAMI Billings free local services and mental health programs.

NAMIWalks is supported across the country by National Lead Sponsor, Alkermes, and National Partner, Takeda Lundbeck.

NAMI Billings is part of the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.