Working to educate, lift stigma of mental illness

If you think you don't know anyone dealing with a mental illness, think again.

About one in every four families will be faced with a serious mental illness at some point, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Yet, there's still a stigma attached to diseases such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and depression.

Despite plenty of research showing there's a biological component to these diseases, there are those who still believe anyone who suffers from them must have a character weakness or be the victim of a poor upbringing.

That is exactly why education programs are such an important part of what NAMI's local affiliate in DuPage County does, says its board president, Jana Cronin.

"Whether it's a friend, a coworker or a family member," Cronin said, "at some point, it affects everyone."

To help fund its education programs and kick off Mental Health Awareness Week, NAMI-DuPage will hold Run for the Mind at 9 a.m. Saturday at Danada Forest Preserve, 3S580 Naperville Road, Wheaton.

The event will include a 5K and 10K runs and a 5K walk.

Registration will be accepted on the Web site at www.signmeupsports.com or from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday at Starbucks in Town Square Shopping Center, Wheaton. Race day registration will be from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m.

The cost is $18, $25 on the day of the event. Anyone who collects $50 or more in pledges will have their registration fee waived.

Proceeds will benefit NAMI-DuPage's various educational programs, such as support groups for families, partnerships with local hospitals, school programs and more. Run for the Mind is one of the organization's two major fundraisers each year.

The organization also operates three group homes and the Encore Resale Shop in downtown Wheaton and provides both advocacy and support for both patients and family members dealing with mental illness.

"We need to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness," Cronin said. "We need to educate the public that it's a biological, brain disorder and that it's treatable."

If You Go

What: Run for the Mind

When: 9 a.m. Saturday

Where: Danada Forest Preserve, 3S580 Naperville Road, Wheaton

Cost: $18 in advance, $25 the day of the event

How to register: Register at www.signmeupsports.com; in person from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday at Starbucks in the Town Square Shopping Center, Wheaton, or from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. at the event.

Details: Call (630) 752-0066 or visit www.namidupage.org