By JESSALYN KIRCHHOFF
Tiger Media Network
Tomorrow afternoon, the National Alliance on Mental Illness on Campus (NAMI-OC) will partner with the Psychology Club to host their annual Walk for Wellness event at Frontier park starting at 1:00 pm.
President of NAMI-OC Nevaeh Copenhaver provides a brief description of the event and invites everyone to Frontier Park for tomorrow afternoon’s walk.
“While strolling along the FHSU Dike Trail, you’ll encounter an array of uplifting and inspiring messages chalked by NAMI-OC and Psychology Club, offering a boost of positivity along your journey,” Copenhaver said “Anyone and everyone is welcome. It is free to all students, staff, and community members. The NAMI Golden Plains chapter has done a lot to help promote the walk to the broader Hays community as well. There will also be free water available throughout the event.”
Copenhaver said NAMI-OC and the Psych Club host the event because physical activity, even something as simple as walking, can benefit your overall well-being.
“Studies have shown that walking can lead to improved moods, reduced stress levels, and increased brain function, and that’s only naming a few of the benefits,” she said. “Physical activity is a wonderful way to increase your mental well-being.”
Copenhaver also believes this event is a highly beneficial way to slow down, especially with university finals quickly approaching.
“In a world that often feels fast-paced and overwhelming, taking the time to prioritize our mental health is an act of self-care and resilience,” Copenhaver said. “It’s okay to take things one step at a time, to pause and breathe, to embrace the beauty of the journey. The clubs hope that this event will bring people together and enhance well-being.”
Copenhaver describes NAMI as a national grassroots organization dedicated to the eradication of mental illnesses and to the improvement of the quality of life of all whose lives are affected by these diseases.
“Our local NAMI-OC chapter at FHSU strives to address the stigma surrounding mental health and promote valid information about mental health. You can think of us as your “mental health awareness” club,” she said.
Additionally, Copenhaver speaks on the FHSU Psychology Club and prefaces that it is an on-campus organization that aims to offer unique opportunities and experiences that students may otherwise not receive.
“Being a member of Psych Club allows students to bolster their skill sets and further their education in applied settings,” she said. “These experiences make students stand out among their peers and give them an edge in the rapidly growing field of psychology.”
Copenhaver goes on to mention that although both clubs are housed in the Psychology Department, they are open to all majors.
“We want to cultivate a safe and open space for anyone who walks through our doors. We want people to feel seen, heard, and loved,” Copenhaver said.
Copenhaver said NAMI-OC and Psych Club have partnered for previous wellness walks and events.
“Our very first Walk For Wellness was in the Spring of 2023. It was such a positive experience for everyone involved that we decided to host another one last October,” she said. “We hope to build a tradition, of sorts. We would love to have a Walk For Wellness at least once a semester going forward. Look for us during the 40 Days at the Fort next fall.”
Copenhaver emphasizes that events such as this are meant to bring people together.
“The human connection is a beautiful thing, and our clubs hope that the Walk For Wellness strengthens those bonds,” she said. “So, we encourage people to invite their friends and family. Let’s create space to share authentic conversations and to make new connections. More than anything else, NAMI-OC wants to provide students with the chance to connect with others in a caring and supportive environment.”
Copenhaver takes this time to encourage anyone interested to join their event tomorrow afternoon.
“Take a step towards a healthier lifestyle and join us in promoting mental and physical wellness at NAMI-OC and Psychology Club’s “Walk For Wellness.” Come together with like-minded individuals in a welcoming environment that encourages self-care and positive energy.”
More information regarding tomorrow afternoon’s Walk for Wellness event can be found on its Tigerlink page https://tigerlink.fhsu.edu/event/10094602 .
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