Roommates, World Mental Health Day is meant to bring awareness to mental health education, and create more of a conversation against the social stigma of struggling with mental health issues. In honor of the day, and the unfortunate passing of her son, Juice WRLD, Carmela Wallace has just announced a foundation to help with mental health struggles in underserved communities.
According to the Hollywood Reporter, the Live Free 999 Fund strives to create programs to address addiction, anxiety and depression, and help to normalize the conversation around these issues. The website launch comes less than a year after Juice WRLD passed away at the age of 21 due to an accidental overdose.
Carmela says she launched the foundation because she recognized the issues her son was dealing with, and hopes that other parents feel inspired by the way that she supported her own child.
“I think he felt comfortable being honest with me because I never judged him,” she writes. “I recognized that what Jarad was dealing with was a disease and I know he truly wanted to be free from the demons that tormented him. As a parent, I believed early on and supported Jarad having access to counseling. I encouraged him to always share his feelings.”
Carmela continues with a clear message to parents and children saying: “My message to the parents and children is simple. You do not have to suffer alone. You do not have to be ashamed of your mental health struggles. There is help. there is a way out.”
“If we can help even one Mother and their son or daughter through our work here, Jarad’s death will have meaning and his positive, loving, creative spirit will endure.”
Please keep Juice WRLD’s mother, and the rest of his loved ones in your prayers during this time, Roomies. And remember to be kind, as you never know what someone is struggling with.
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