NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) — News 8 continues our conversation about mental health and managing depression, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic.

News 8’s Ken Houston was joined by Luis B. Pérez and Kenny Mercer of Mental Health Connecticut (MHC), who discussed Tour for Life and how Pérez’s recent diagnosis with multiple sclerosis impacted his perspective.

Mercer contacted MHC in 2019 about hosting a fundraiser after his close friend died by suicide. He wanted to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention.

Tour for Life has expanded in three years from a one-night, one-venue event in Connecticut to a multi-day event in New Jersey, New Hampshire, Maine, and Connecticut.

This summer’s event will be Aug. 10-14, and all proceeds benefit MHC.

Watch the full interview above.

Check out Mental Health Connecticut’s Let’s Face It campaign to learn more about mental health journeys and how you can get help.