The Alive Team Shines at NAMI Walks

This past Saturday, the 2023 NAMI Walks Jacksonville event, hosted by the Winston Family YMCA in Riverside, saw an impressive turnout of over 400 community members. The day kicked off at 8 a.m. with Alive prominently represented at the NAMI Walks Wellness Fair. Mark and I engaged in meaningful conversations with hundreds of attendees, discussing our commitment to establishing a "Financial Zen Zone" for those grappling with the weighty burden of financial stress, all through our comprehensive and free financial wellness resources. As part of our outreach, we distributed Money Tree planter kits featuring Alive's information.

In addition to our presence at the fair, our dedicated team participated in the walk/run event. A special shout-out goes to Jess Parmenter, Shirley Rincon, and Andre Ruiz-Feijoo for their support, showcasing to all of Jacksonville that the Alive Team deeply cares about the community.

It's essential to recognize that a significant portion of event participants either confront their own battles with mental illness or support someone who does. While mental illness often conjures images of depression and anxiety, its impact extends far beyond these facets. Mental illness can touch anyone's life. Let's delve into how mental illness intersects with financial well-being.

Mental Illness & Financial Wellness

Financial stress ranks as a prominent catalyst for anxiety and depression in our society. Astonishingly, 62% of Americans admit to feeling stressed about their financial situation. Furthermore, financial stress correlates with a 13% higher likelihood of developing mental health issues.

As the weight of trying to make ends meet permeates one's daily existence, a perilous path can emerge. Individuals grappling with high financial stress are 3x more likely to experience symptoms of depression. An astonishing 70% of adults state that financial stress adversely affects their mental health.

How Alive makes a difference

Seeking professional help for financial challenges can result in an 80% reduction in overall stress levels. Becoming part of a supportive environment can lead to a 20% improvement in mental well-being. When a member reaches out to consult with Alive's Financial Wellness Coach, we can immediately make an impact on their mental health. Our focus on educating individuals about budgeting, saving, and credit isn't merely about finances; it's about enhancing overall well-being.

A remarkable 87% of individuals who receive financial education report a reduction in financial stress. Members can explore these educational resources through articles, webinars, coaching sessions, or by utilizing the Savvy Money tool available on their online banking page.

Do you have a member whom you suspect is grappling with significant financial stress? We encourage you to refer them to our dedicated Financial Wellness Coach and introduce them to the array of free resources accessible on our website.