Three-day Walk Brings Awareness to Mental Health

SEAVILLE – Greta Schwartz of Seaville is using her theatrical background in hopes of drawing attention to mental health awareness this Memorial Day. In fact, she is hoping to start a ‘Revolution for Mental Health.’ Schwartz plans to walk nearly 100 miles to the state capital in Trenton on Memorial Day carrying a lightweight, handmade coffin representing the people whose lives have been cut short from mental illness and suicide.  
Schwartz was inspired by Patrick Kennedy, an author and advocate for mental health, and recent suicides of two teens from Ocean City High School. She also feels that now is the time, since it’s an election year, and “real issues are not being addressed at the debates,” said Schwartz. She decided to do something big and loud, and since May is Mental Health Awareness month it was the perfect opportunity. Schwartz plans to dress in a warrior costume because she is “fighting like a warrior” to end stigmas associated with mental health. 
Schwartz looks forward to her three-day trek which starts at 6 a.m. May 30 on Route 50 in Greenfield, Upper Township. She plans to walk approximately 30 miles each day, arriving at the state capital building around lunchtime June 1. While most of her route includes back roads, some of the roads approaching Trenton are major roadways without shoulders, which leaves her a bit nervous.  
The community response has been huge and supportive. “So many people have reached out thanking me for being open and verbal and not hiding about mental health issues,” claims Schwartz, “You can’t heal if you’re hiding.”
Schwartz has a GoFundMe page available, “Revolution for Mental Health Care,” and contributors include Sen. Jeff Van Drew (D-1st), an advocate for change. 
Schwartz also shared some valuable information for anyone needing assistance with mental health issues. The organization, PerformCare, offers many free services and assistance with children’s mental health with 24-hour availability. 
For more information on Greta Schwartz’s “Revolution for Mental Health Care,” email Johanna Hovik at jhovik@cmcherald.com.