ZooMiami Mental Health Walk Raises Awareness, Fundraise | 95.3 WDAE

It’s National Mental Health Awareness Month and statistics show that more people in their teens, early 20s, and over 65 are turning to suicide rather than seeking help.

National Alliance on Mental Illness Executive Director Susan Holtzman says there are a few reasons for this.

“The loneliness that has arisen from COVID has especially impacted young people, and that is why we are seeing an increase (in suicides) among young people,” he said. “There is also evidence that reliance on social media has driven an increase in suicidal ideation and actions.”

More than 3,700 people participated in the ZOOMiami Mental Health Awareness Walk on Saturday morning, raising more than $380,000 to provide programs for those who need help, according to NAMI.

“We have reached more than 10,000 young people since 2018,” he said. “Now we are reaching out to families so that youth and families speak the same language so they can talk about mental illness, mental health, how to know when you need help and where to go to get it.”

Miami Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava was present at the Mental Health Awareness Walk at ZOOMiami.

“When the community comes together and realizes the importance of addressing mental health issues, then we can truly solve these challenges,” he said.

To get help for yourself or others, call the NAMI Helpline at: 800-950-6264, or text/chat “helpline” at 62640, or call/message text to 988.