Over 100 individuals came together at Stephen Beachy Central Park in College Station on Saturday, organized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to raise awareness about mental health issues. The event emphasized the importance of community support for those facing mental health challenges.
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Carley Burson, Interim Executive Director of NAMI Brazos Valley, highlighted the significance of connection during tough times, stating, “It is crucial for people in that stage not to feel that they’re going through it alone. To be able to talk to other people...is huge for a lot of people with different mental health issues.”
The NAMI Walks event also served as an opportunity for attendees to honor loved ones affected by mental health conditions. Kiana Levine attended to support her sister, who was diagnosed with multiple mental health illnesses years ago. She reflected on the challenges of processing her sister's diagnosis after a traumatic event.
Levine noted the positive impact of NAMI’s family support group, saying, “It was just incredibly impactful. It was really nice to hear from other families who are impacted by mental health.”
Burson emphasized the importance of discussing mental health and suicide, urging participants to reach out to their loved ones: “It’s extremely important for you to ask your friends, your family, your loved ones, your children, especially, saying, Talk to me about how you’re feeling. Tell me honestly.”
For more information on NAMI Brazos Valley and ways to support their mission, additional resources are available.