MERIDIAN, Mississippi (WTOK) – Despite the rain on Sunday, people gathered at Lake Bonita to raise awareness about mental health.
Zachary Ball organized mental health walks in memory of his suicidal father to help others who are struggling mentally.
Attendees Opal Miller and Christopher Seals explain why it was important to support the mental health walk.
“So many people are going through something right now. My nephew, when he came to my and my family’s attention, we wanted to support him. If you are going through something and if there is anything positive you can do to raise awareness about mental illness and suicide. No rain, shine, sleet or snow,” Miller said.
“I wanted to take time out today to support Zachary Ball’s Walk-A-Son for Mental Health. Losing people every day to mental illness is really serious. Hands down. I think it’s good to reach out, unite as people, be strong for others, and make sure no one loses to mental illness,” Shields said.
Event organizers urge people not to suffer silently or seek help.
“It’s okay if it’s not okay. Pray more, don’t worry, talk to someone you really love. Like I said a few days ago, go get help and see a therapist.”
Ball plans to host the event again next year to continue honoring his father’s memory.
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