Mental health is as important as physical health, but it is frequently overlooked by providers, insurers, and even individuals suffering from mental illness. Due to stigma, financial reasons, or even not knowing where to go for help, many people affected by mental illness go without care, and many more are afraid to reach out to friends and family due to fear of judgment. This is a national public health disaster, affecting the quality of life of millions of people. Our society frowns upon asking for help, and our culture of overwork and keeping one's problems to oneself exacerbate this. What we need is community support to help everyone meet their own diverse mental health needs.

Friends and family - I ask that you support those you know with mental health issues without judgment, and help them seek what they need to feel better, be it a therapist, a psychiatrist, or even simply support with lifestyle changes. Those of us who have suffered or are suffering from mental illness: every time we share our story, we help remove the stigma associated with mental illness and we encourage others like us to seek help.

By donating to my NAMI walk team, you are helping to fund an organization that provides resources to people suffering from mental health issues as well as their friends and family. Many people are under- or uninsured and cannot afford mental health care, or are just afraid to ask.