Union University’s social work department is providing an opportunity to raise awareness for mental illness by hosting the annual “Stomp Out Stigma” 5K glow run and one-mile walk on Thursday, April 4, at 6:30 p.m. at the Bell Tower. All proceeds go to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Madison County.
The event was started two years ago by Theresa Blakley, a professor of social work, while teaching her psychopathology class about mental illness. Realizing how staggering it is that 75% of mental illnesses are diagnosed in early adulthood, Blakley decided to take action by contacting NAMI to see what she and her class could do.
NAMI is a not-for-profit organization across most of the United States that has a mission of ending the stigma surrounding mental illness and provides free help for those facing mental illness and their families. Blakley explained that not everyone can afford treatment, but NAMI is an available source.
Tammy Patton, associate professor of social work and one of the faculty advisors for the run/walk, expressed the importance of education and advocacy about mental health and mental illness.
“I think advocacy, even though we see that as an intervention, I think when you can advocate for yourself, for your age group, it inspires you to know more and thus find more coping skills,” said Patton.
This is one of the main goals the department has for the event. It’s not as much about raising money as it is about raising awareness for the cause in the community, specifically on Union’s campus.
Hanna Mead, a senior social work major, is one of the students that is responsible for making this event happen.
“Ultimately, in the Christian community especially, [mental health] is something that’s not talked about a lot,” said Mead. “Unfortunately there is a stigma around mental illness, and a lot of people, because they’ve never experienced it themselves, don’t understand. Sometimes, I think, it’s human tendency to look down upon things we don’t understand.”
It is encouraged that students come and participate or show their support for those dealing with mental illness by attending the event.
The registration fee is $20 for community participants and $10 for students. Those interested can register online at www.uu.edu/events/socialwork.
—-Stomp Out Stigma ???
Frankly, I’d much rather stomp those who insist there is one. They have done enough harm. Repeating them helps no one.