UW Veterans Services Center Sponsors Stompin Out Stigma 5k Run/Walk Sept. 20

A 5k run/walk to raise awareness of mental health and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is planned Saturday, Sept. 20, at the University of Wyoming.

Registration for the “Stompin’ Out Stigma” run/walk is at 8 a.m. at the UW Fraternity Mall. The event begins at 9 a.m. Cost is $10 per person and includes a race T-shirt. Registrations are accepted online at www.active.com/laramie-wy/running/stompin-out-stigma-5k-2014.

An assisted 5k event also is offered for those with disabilities. A lunch follows the race/walk.

The UW Veterans Services Center sponsors the event along with Peak Wellness, UW Residence Life and Dining Services, Laramie American Legion and the Cheyenne Veterans Center.

“This is a great event for a great cause. The event will bring awareness, attention and discussion to the very important issue of mental health and PTSD, and the stigmas that often prevent individuals from seeking mental health services when needed,” says Marty Martinez, UW Veterans Services Center senior project coordinator. “Our military and veteran community worldwide continues to struggle with mental health issues and still experiences a very high suicide rate.”

He says the Veterans Administration estimates that 22 suicide deaths are committed each day among military veterans.

For more information about the “Stompin’ Out Stigma” 5k run/walk, contact Martinez at (307) 766-6909 or email mmarti77@uwyo.edu.