On October 18, 2024, the local advocacy group OCD Awareness SCV will host a community walk aimed at raising awareness about obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This initiative seeks to address the significant delay many individuals face in obtaining effective treatment, which averages around 17 years. The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to noon at Fair Oaks Park, located at 17468 Honey Maple St., Santa Clarita.
The annual event, now in its fifth year, is organized in collaboration with OCD SoCal and the International OCD Foundation. It aims to foster a supportive community for those affected by OCD, while also combatting the stigma associated with the disorder. Attendees can expect a variety of activities, including interactive sessions, educational resources, and personal success stories shared by individuals living with OCD. A walk around the park will also be held in support of the IOCDF’s “One Million Steps for OCD” campaign.
Founded in 2020 as a grassroots initiative, OCD Awareness SCV began as a volunteer group comprised of local community members. In 2024, it became an affiliate of OCD SoCal, further expanding its reach and impact. The organization’s mission focuses on advocating for OCD awareness, creating opportunities for support, and enhancing connections within the local OCD community.
Psychologist Michelle Witkin, a spokesperson for the event, emphasized the importance of the walk. “The walk creates much-needed community and provides hope for OCD sufferers and those who love them,” she stated.
Participation in the event is free, and community members are encouraged to register in advance. For more information and to sign up, individuals can visit tinyurl.com/25vu763j. This event represents a vital opportunity to foster understanding and support for those living with OCD, highlighting the importance of early intervention and community engagement in addressing mental health issues.
