This January I will be participating in the #Change-The-Norm "Move 4 Mental Health" Virtual 5k. During the month I will both swim 3.1 miles in the pool and run 3.1 miles on one of my favorite local running routes to raise money for a cause that works to help others like me.
The non-profit #Change-The-Norm vows to change society's views on mental health. They hope to help end the stigma and help the younger generation seek help when they need it most.
My mental health issues were discovered while I was at the end of high school and starting college. I didn't know how to handle my depression and anxiety at that time of my life; and didn't even know how to get help. It was a rough time for me. I wasn't encouraged to talk about my issues and therefore tried taking dangerous actions that almost resulted in my life ending by the end of my time in college. I wish I had gotten the help back then that I have been getting; knowing that some things might have been different, incuding the actions that I took.
Did you know that suicide is the second leading cause of death for people aged 10- 24? This stigma is considered to be the largest barrier to students seeking help for mental illnesses on undergrad campuses? Many experiencing mental health challenges are too afraid to seek help from family, friends or health professionals due to effects of stigma, fear of discrimination and shame. Many are not aware that effective treatments exist and things can get better.
For a group of individuals who already carry such a heavy burden, stigma is an unacceptable addition to their pain and something which prevents them from seeking the help they need. Please help me support #Change-The-Norm in ending stigma, reducing suffering and saving lives by helping me achieve my fundraising goal of $100.
To help simply hit the red 'Donate Now!' button on the right. It's that easy. You don't need to make a big donation; so anything really helps. When you donate; you'll recieve a donation receipt.
Thank you for your support in this movement; so the younger generation doesn't have to suffer like I did. It is so truely appreciated.
Marci Goldberg.
