On September 13, around 2,000 people gathered at the Michigan Capitol for the “Walk a Mile in My Shoes” rally, organized by the Community Mental Health Association of Michigan (CMHA) and associated county organizations. The event aimed to raise awareness about mental health and public health and allowed individuals to share their experiences with mental illness, the impact of community behavioral health services, and their support for this cause.
The rally was an opportunity for those affected by mental health conditions to stand up against the stigma associated with mental illness and advocate for change. CMHA, which represents Michigan’s public mental health system, used the event to inform legislators about the importance of mental health and advocate for improvements in access to services, integrated healthcare, and workforce recruitment and retention in the public behavioral health system.
The rally also served as a platform to provide attendees with voter registration information and encourage voter engagement. Voter turnout and advocacy are essential components of influencing legislative change and improving mental health services in Michigan.
The event highlighted the prevalence of mental health issues in Michigan, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. By raising awareness and engaging legislators, CMHA aims to secure increased funding and resources for mental health care and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. The organization believes that increased awareness, advocacy, and funding can lead to improved access to affordable mental health care for all Michigan residents.
