SAN ANTONIO —Hundreds gathered at Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio for the 19th annual NAMI Walks event, organized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
The event held on Saturday morning, drew approximately 1,500 participants, including more than 100 registered teams, to raise awareness and remind individuals they are not alone in their mental health struggles. Community organizations including University Health were also present to showcase available resources for those in need of support.
NAMI Greater San Antonio offers a free pre-crisis line called the NAMI Bexar Warm Line that connects people to specialists who can lend a compassionate ear and/or connect them to community resources. They also offer free mental health education programs with specialists available everyday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
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Our very own anchor Ashley Paredez was invited to share her own story of her struggle with anxiety. She hopes that by speaking out, she is encouraging others to take the first step towards healing.
“That’s why I feel it’s so important to speak out because a lot of people don’t know what they’re struggling with or how they’re feeling or how to navigate it, and feel like they are isolated and alone, but we’re all in this together,” Paredez said. “I want you to know I’m here to hear you and share your stories as well because the more we talk about it, I think that is really, truly how we’re going to be making a difference.”
The community’s efforts raised nearly $173,000 all in support of mental health for all. For more information on mental health resources click here or call 210-734-3349, press Option 1.