May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so on May 4th some of the SEOM Interactive team participated in the NAMIWalks 5k to support the nation’s largest mental health awareness and fundraising event.
We learned that 1 in 5 people will be affected by mental illness in their lifetime. We also learned that depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide.
NAMI’s mission is straightforward: “NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental health. NAMI advocates for access to services, treatment, supports and research and is steadfast in its commitment to raising awareness and building a community of hope for all of those in need.”
Getting Involved
SEOM gathered a team of 14 people, plus 2 furry friends, and braved the rain on an early Saturday morning and walked 3.1 miles to help support the cause. The day was filled with fun, laughter, and even some free ice cream!
The generous gifts and contributions that NAMI receives helps create educational programs, advocate for resources, run a toll-free hotline, and allows them to host public awareness events. SEOM raised $250, and NAMIWalks Greater Philadelphia raised a total of $119,763 and had almost 800 participants at the event.
Takeaways
CEO of SEOM, Mark Kennedy, emphasizes work/life balance for the staff. We understand that life can be chaotic and stressful, but that self-care should be implemented in everyone’s daily routines. Take some time to yourself, celebrate small victories, and surround yourself with positive people, but most importantly ask for help when you need it.
Mental Health Resources
NAMI Toll-Free HelpLine: Open Monday – Friday 10am – 6pm, ET. 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
The Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Crisis Counselors are available 24/7 1-800-273-8255
Anxiety and Depression Association of America: Provides prevention, treatment and symptoms of anxiety and, depression 240-485-1001.
Healthy Minds Philly offers a FREE online screening tool.
May 7, 2019