Jim Yellig Park served as the vibrant backdrop for the third annual Mental Health Matters Awareness Walk, where several organizations within the Spencer County Health Coalition convened to provide vital mental health resources.
Approximately 200 participants joined the event, unified in their support for the organization and in spreading the crucial message that individuals grappling with mental illness are not alone.
Christina Beeler, representing LifeSpring Health Systems—a prominent mental health agency in Spencer County—highlighted the concerning uptick in depression and anxiety within the community. “We want to bring awareness that there’s no shame in asking for help,” Beeler emphasized. “Mental health issues don’t discriminate, and there’s help available. Our aim is to ensure everyone in need is aware of the resources accessible to them.”
The event, marking the commencement of “mental health awareness month,” underscores the importance of prioritizing self-care. Participants echoed the sentiment that mental health is just as significant as physical well-being, emphasizing the imperative of destigmatizing discussions surrounding mental health challenges.
Jordan Foertsch, a former DCFS caseworker, articulated the profound impact of the mental health crisis on families and underscored the collective endeavor to support organizations offering essential services to those in need.
Saturday’s walk encompassed a route circling two of the park’s baseball fields, with many participants completing the loop multiple times to demonstrate their solidarity with the cause. Tim Rogier, echoing the sentiments of many, expressed his personal connection to the cause and the importance of raising awareness about often overlooked mental health conditions.
In addition to providing valuable mental health and addiction recovery resources, the event featured engaging activities for attendees, including face painting for children by the “Voice Action Speaks” club—a grassroots organization advocating for tobacco and drug-free living.
For Maddie Knepper, a member of Voice Action Speaks, the event held personal significance, serving as a beacon of hope amid challenging times. “This club has brought me out of that,” Knepper remarked, emphasizing the transformative impact of community support.
As part of their outreach efforts, participating organizations urged individuals experiencing a crisis, including thoughts of suicide, to utilize the crisis hotline 988—a free-of-charge resource offering immediate assistance and support.
