There are many issues that can affect individuals from all walks of life; among those are mental health problems. These problems are something Spin to Defeat Depression organizer Obi Oniah knows well.
“One in five people are affected directly with mental health and depression, and 13 Canadians, every day, take their lives,” said Oniah. “That’s why we’re trying to raise awareness and raise funds for mental health services in our community. Hopefully, by raising awareness, we can encourage people to be more open, and to talk about it and help those people before they get to that point.”
This year, Oniah has organized the Spin to Defeat Depression events to build up interest and raise funds for the annual walk on Sept. 29. The first Spin to Defeat Depression class in June had 11 participants, the most recent class had 19.
The proceeds from the Spin to Defeat Depression classes go to local facilities and organizations working to help with mental health.
“Some of the funds today go to Martin House, which is part of the Mental Wellness Centre,” said Oniah.
“They deal with children and adults ages 16 to 30, so we need to raise funds to sustain those services in Penticton.”
More information about the Defeat Depression Walk can be found on their Facebook page penticton.defeatdepression, and on their official website.