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The statistics are startling: One in every four people will develop a mental disorder at some point in their life, according to the World Health Organization. Additionally, mental illnesses are more common than cancer, diabetes or heart disease.
But mental diseases are often kept behind closed doors and still considered a stigma by many.
In an effort to raise awareness and help families and those impacted by mental illness, the Beaufort County chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) will be holding a 5K walk on Coligny Beach on Oct. 22.
NAMI of Beaufort County offers many services for the mentally ill and their families and friends, including crisis services, employment assistance, classes on mental illness, support groups and much more.
Mary Hiers, of Hilton Head, has firsthand experience with how mental illness affects a family and the importance of organizations like NAMI.
“My son was diagnosed with mental illness 20 years ago,” she said. “At that time we just struggled to find someone to talk to, to find a support group, to learn about medications. At that time, very few had the courage to speak out.”
So, Hiers took things into her own hands and started the Beaufort County chapter of NAMI.
“If he would have had cancer, people would have asked about him. In those days, it was so hush-hush. But we never gave up on him. He’s on medications today that have saved his life. In fact, his illness brought our family closer.”
Last year about 400 to 500 people took part in NAMIWalks, and Hiers hopes this year will be just as successful.
“These diseases affect so many people. We want to help people to be aware and to know that they are not alone.”
NAMI Beaufort County
6th Annual NAMIWalks
The 6th annual 5K NAMIWalks will be held on Oct. 22 at Coligny Beach. In addition to a beach cookout, the band The Islandeers will play oldies and beach music.
Individuals can form their own walk teams, join an existing team or walk individually. Non-walkers can support NAMIWalks by sponsoring a walker or team, or by becoming an event sponsor.
Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. and the walk begins at 10 a.m. Registration is free online at www.namibeaufortcounty.com or at the event. Donations to NAMI can also be made on the website.
By Sally Mahan
