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"Walk A Mile In My Shoes" rally seeks modernization of mental health care

Walk A Mile In My Shoes Rally happening Thursday at the State Capitol
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LANSING, Mich. — Thousands of mental health advocates gathered at the Capitol Thursday for the annual "Walk a Mile in My Shoes Rally."

People gathered to remind lawmakers of Michigan's mental health care issues.

They want Michigan's public mental health system modernized.

In addition to advocating for increased funding, rally organizers want to raise awareness about mental health needs and banish mental health stigmas.

"Most of us are afraid to admit we have a mental health need," Robert Sheehan, executive officer of Community Mental Health Association of Michigan

"People aren't afraid to admit they have cancer or all kinds of conditions, but when it comes to talking about mental illness they'll never say their seeing a therapist, seeing a psychiatrist, or taking medication."

The event featured a ceremonial walk around the Capitol and stories from people who have experienced a disruption of mental health services due to budget cuts.

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