R
unning and walking regularly can be therapeutic. Physical activity helps prevent and manage conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes; it also reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety and boosts brain health and overall well-being. Health professionals, medical authorities, and people who experience these benefits daily all agree on this.
“we want to reach everyone who needs our services”
To encourage running for mental health and to expand its community services, Albizu University has organized the 5K race “Albizu for Mental Health: Wellness for All,” which will take place for the second time on Sunday, October 20, 2024. The race starts at 7:00 a.m. from Plaza Colón in Old San Juan and finishes at the Albizu University campus. This event will bring together community members, students, university staff, and anyone eager to get moving while enjoying the vibrant scenery of the iconic walled city. The race aims to promote physical activity within the university and Old San Juan communities while raising funds to support Albizu University’s Mental Health and Speech Pathology Clinics.
“Albizu University provides over 12,000 services annually through its low-cost clinics, but the need is still great. We want to reach everyone who needs our services, so we’re directing the funds raised through this effort to expand our resources and increase the number of professionals available. We’re leading by example, promoting an active lifestyle, and continuing our work to improve people’s well-being through the university and our clinics,” said Dr. Nelson Soto, President of Albizu University, whose office is spearheading this initiative.
For over 50 years, the university has worked through its clinics to strengthen mental health and improve access to services for underserved populations. The Mental Health Clinic offers various services, including individual, family, couples, and group therapy. It also provides specialized services for trauma victims, psychological first aid, and treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder, among others. The clinic conducts psychological, psychoeducational, and neuropsychological assessments, as well as evaluations for autism diagnosis.
Meanwhile, the Speech and Language Pathology Clinic provides screening, treatment, and evaluation services for infants, children, adolescents, and adults. The assessments cover various areas of communication, including hearing, articulation-phonology, voice, fluency, language, cognitive needs, literacy, dysphagia, and assistive technology. Both clinics are at Albizu University’s San Juan Campus and Mayagüez University Center. Services are provided by Albizu graduate students under the supervision of licensed professionals.
Through its Mental Health and Speech Pathology Clinics, Albizu University stays true to its mission of serving the community by offering affordable services to individuals and families with limited access or resources. The Albizu 5K is a chance to run, walk, and join others in a healthy, fun, and purpose-driven initiative. For route details and registration, visit 5kAlbizu.com.
