2022 PC Mental Health Awareness Walk

The Phillips County Health Department, Phillips County Coalition of Healthy Choices, and Phillips County Hospital teamed up for the 2022 Phillips County Mental Health Awareness Walk on Sunday, September 11.

The gathering took place at Riverview Park and the walk, an option of a 5k or mile, took place at Malta's M-Trail. Refreshments and snacks were available at the Malta High School cafeteria. The event had over 100 volunteers and participants and raised about $900 for the fundraiser. Kaylie Gilman was the event's guest speaker.

PCHC's Tyanna Dunbar began the event with words of her own.

"At times, living in a small community can make the mental health journey a little more difficult..." Dunbar said at the event. "But today, you can look around and know that the people standing here (PCHC, PCCHC, and PCHD) support you."

Dunbar also said that though a person may feel powerless, kindness and compassion towards one another can help.

"'When it comes to supporting those around us I think it is often easy to feel powerless or question ourselves and our ability to help," Dunbar said. "We may feel uncomfortable or unqualified. Regardless of these feelings, it is important to remember that we are able to help. Every day we are able to choose to be kind. We are able to choose to be compassionate. We are able to choose how we interact with others. I believe that one of the most powerful things we can do every single day is make an effort."

Dunbar then introduced Gilman, the event's guest speaker.

Gilman said that mental illness affects 19 percent of adults, 46 percent of teenagers, and 13 percent of children. And that only half of those that have mental health issues will seek help.

Gilman said that the first step to getting help is asking for help.

"I would be lying to all of you if I didn't say that it was scary," Gilman said. "But it is necessary. We are human, which means that we come with human emotions; some very confusing and complex emotions."

"Whether it be your parents, a co-worker, a person next to you in church, a friend, or someone who has dealt with the same emotions, there are always people to go to," she continued.

She asked those in attendance to think about the last five months of their lives; the memories, the faces that they've met, the birthday and holidays that were celebrated, vacations, first day of practice, and first day of school.

"Now, I would like you to think about those events minus one family member or friend," Gilman said. "It is painful. Life goes on and these events go on with or without you, your family member or friend, so don't give up."

"You are worthy," she continued. "You are more than worthy. You deserve to experience how great life can be and be that change for others."

She urged those listening to inspire others, so that others can look and say, "He did it. She did it. And I can do it too."

Prior to the beginning of the 5k and mile-long walk at Malta's M-Trail, Gilman offered up a quote for all to think about.

"The difference between winning and losing is most often not quitting," Gilman said, quoting Walt Disney.