NAMIWalks Vermont is just a few weeks away! We are so excited to come together this year, in-person, in support of mental health for all Vermonters. Our annual event will take place starting at the First Unitarian Universalist Society at 152 Pearl Street in Burlington (at the top of Church Street). Registration and activities begin at 12 p.m. We will start walking at 1 p.m. If you’re on the fence about coming or just need some help getting excited, here are four reasons why you should join NAMIWalks Vermont 2023.
1. Help put an end to the stigma around mental health conversations.
By joining NAMIWalks, you are actively helping to put an end to the stigma surrounding mental health. Right now, mental health is at the forefront of the national conversation, in everyday life and in politics. However, this hasn’t always been the case, and there is still lots of stigma in certain communities and especially about serious mental illness. We need to keep up the current momentum and continue to talk about and advocate for better mental health systems. Showing up at NAMIWalks is an amazing demonstration of your support and helps break down the stigma.
2. Show your support for all individuals impacted by mental illness.
Mental illness affects more than just the individual with the diagnosis. Family, friends, partners, providers, and community members all experience the impact of mental illness and need support in their own journeys. It is important to show support for caregivers as well as peers so they know that they are not alone.
3. Come together for mental health with community members who care.
When you join NAMIWalks, you become part of an event filled with people like you who are passionate about mental health. Experience the energy of over 100 people who share the same dedication to mental health all coming together for #MentalHealthforAll.
4. Get outside, get active, and enjoy a spring day in downtown Burlington!
Fresh air and exercise work wonders for mental health, and Burlington is a great city to spend a spring day walking around. Hopefully we’ll be fortunate enough to get some good weather! There’s plenty to do downtown before and after the Walk, like strolling along the waterfront or shopping at the Church Street Marketplace.
