Stomp Out Stigma is an annual 5k event that raises awareness to “stomp out” the shame associated with mental illness. Due to current circumstances related to COVID-19, participants can take part in this event from their own homes on May 2.
This year is the fourth annual Stomp Out Stigma. The event was initially started by Terry Blakley, a professor of social work, and her psychopathology class. It focuses on the shame associated with mental illness, and the goal is to “stomp out” that stigma. It is important for people, especially college students, to know that there should be no shame in admitting that you struggle with anxiety, depression or other forms of mental illness.
Nikki Humphries, senior social work major, is the president of Union University’s National Alliance on Mental Illness chapter (NAMI). Humphries has worked alongside Tammy Patton, a professor of social work, and Blakley’s psychopathology class to make the event happen.
“The purpose of this walk is to come together as a community to show support for these individuals and let people know that they are not alone; there is no shame in asking for help,” said Humphries.
Patton and Humphries were meeting weekly to plan the event until COVID-19 required them to alter their plans. The event was initially scheduled for April 23, but since current circumstances prevent the event from being held on campus, students have come up with a creative alternative which will take place on Saturday, May 2. The event will now be a virtual experience, and participants are encouraged to run in a location of their choice — on a home treadmill, around their neighborhoods or at a local park.
“The pandemic may warrant separation physically, but we can use media and reach out to one another on this platform, on the phone and through email,” said Patton. “Tell people who are suffering that ‘You are not alone! We care.’”
Participants will take a photo of themselves starting or finishing the run and send it to tpatton@uu.edu, along with their finish time and age category. The School of Social Work will announce awards and send medals out to the winners.
All donations from the event will go to NAMI Madison County. NAMI is the largest mental health organization which provides education, support and advocacy for people struggling with mental illness.
Currently, JACOA is the largest donor, and Patton thanks them on behalf of the department for their generosity in giving to the event.
“We can’t wait to see the encouragement, the support, the creativity and the love online for family and friends who struggle with mental illness,” said Patton.
If you want more information or are interested in registering for this event, go to www.uu.edu/events/socialwork.
Photo courtesy of Kristi McMurry Woody