NAMIWalks El Paso brings community together to support mental health
EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — Community members gathered at Ascarate Park on World Mental Health Day for NAMIWalks El Paso, an event focused on raising awareness, encouraging people to seek help and reminding those facing mental health challenges that they are not alone.
The walk brought together people committed to supporting mental health and building a community where individuals and families can find the resources they need.
For Fernando Muniz, who has worked in the mental health field for 26 years, the most rewarding part of his work is seeing people overcome challenges and move forward.
“It's just sometimes it brings you to tears. Seeing people succeed. I want to cry right now,” Muniz said.
Muniz said helping children, adults and families realize their potential is what makes the work meaningful. He also encouraged people who may be struggling to seek support and take advantage of available services.
“You do have a right to get services. Look for them, you know, pursue the services. It's OK. Get help. It's very important,” Muniz said.
The event also highlighted the importance of bringing people together to address mental health challenges and reduce the stigma surrounding them.
Isidro Torres, executive director of NAMI El Paso, said mental health conditions affect a significant portion of the population.
“One in five people live with a mental health condition and are affected in a given year,” Torres said.
Torres said NAMIWalks is about more than raising awareness. It also demonstrates that support is available for people who may feel alone in their struggles.
“If today proves anything, it's that there's a community out here to support you and ready to help you any way we can,” Torres said.
The gathering served as a reminder that mental health is an ongoing conversation and that asking for help is an important step toward getting support.
As participants crossed the finish line at Ascarate Park, the message was clear: People experiencing mental health challenges do not have to face them alone, and it is OK to speak up when they are struggling.
