Walks taking place across B.C. this week for mental health awareness

People across British Columbia are marking Mental Health Week by taking part in awareness walks.

“Statistically they say that one of five people are probably living with a mental illness,” said Vancouver musician Bif Naked today at Vancouver Coastal Health’s third annual Walk-A-Mile for Mental Health. “We have to encourage dialogue, and remove the veil and get people talking about it.”

Get weekly health news

Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday.

Sign up for weekly health newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

The Vancouver event had its roots at Riverview Hospital, where it began in 1990. It moved over to Vancouver after the mental health facility fully shut down a few years ago.

READ MORE: Canadian millennials hit hardest by mental health woes: poll

The 1.6-kilometre walk is one of several events taking place this week in B.C. In Coquitlam, an awareness walk is taking place at Citadel Middle School, while in Penticton, a Move to Defeat Depression walk is taking place on May 9. A “Darkness Into Light” walk is also taking place at Burnaby Lake on May 9.

Health Minister Terry Lake has also announced $850,000 in funding for Families Organized for Recognition and Care Equality, a society that supports child and youth mental health.