San Diegans are encouraged to participate in the annual San Diego NAMI Walks and Mental Wellness Expo taking place this Saturday, April 27, 2024. The event is themed as “I am NAMIWALKS” and is organized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness in partnership with the County’s Health and Human Services Agency. This event marks the beginning of Mental Health Matters Month, which occurs every May. Community members are urged to join local organizations in raising awareness about mental health, combating the stigma surrounding mental health issues, and coming together to show support for those in need.
Dr. Luke Bergmann, Director of County Behavioral Health Services, highlighted the importance of events like NAMIWalks to encourage communities to think about mental health and how they can support each other. In his view, mental health is a daily priority, and events like this help remind individuals of the significance of taking care of their emotional well-being.
The event will kick off with a community walk around Preble Field in NTC Park at Liberty Station at 8:15 a.m. after the opening remarks. The event will also feature a Mental Wellness Expo open from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. with over 100 exhibitor booths offering resources for families, children, military members, veterans, and interactive activities aimed at improving mental health. The County will host booths with various activities such as an affirmation potting station, stigma busting photo booth, Naloxone distribution, face painting, children’s activity booth, and Tai-Chi demonstrations.
To participate in the NAMIWalks and Mental Wellness Expo, individuals can register on the event website. Additionally, for anyone facing mental health challenges, they can call the Access and Crisis Line at 1-888-724-7240. More resources are also available on the County BHS Resources webpage and the It’s Up to Us SD website, which includes a list of other activities happening throughout Mental Health Matters Month.
Overall, the San Diego NAMI Walks and Mental Wellness Expo is an opportunity for the community to come together, support mental health awareness, and participate in activities that promote emotional well-being.