Raising Awareness and Combating Stigma: San Diego’s NAMI Walks and Mental Wellness Expo Kicks Off Mental Health Matters Month

The annual San Diego NAMI Walks and Mental Wellness Expo will take place this Saturday, April 27, 2024. Organized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness in collaboration with the County’s Health and Human Services Agency, the event marks the beginning of Mental Health Matters Month celebrated every May.

San Diegans are encouraged to participate in the event to raise awareness about mental health, combat stigma associated with mental health issues, and show solidarity to remind others that they are not alone. Dr. Luke Bergmann, Director of County Behavioral Health Services emphasizes the importance of mental health and supporting one another during the NAMIWalks.

The day will start with a community walk around Preble Field in NTC Park at Liberty Station at 8:15 a.m., followed by an opening ceremony. A Mental Wellness Expo will be open from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., featuring over 100 exhibitor booths offering resources for families, children, military members, veterans, and interactive activities to promote mental health.

The County’s booths at the expo will include an affirmation potting station, stigma-busting photo booth, Naloxone distribution, face painting, a children’s activity booth, and Tai Chi demonstrations. For those interested in attending the NAMIWalks and Mental Wellness Expo, registration is available on the event website.

Individuals experiencing mental health challenges or seeking additional resources can contact the Access and Crisis Line at 1-888-724-7240. Additional information and resources are also accessible through the County BHS Resources webpage and the It’s Up to Us SD website which offers a calendar of events related to Mental Health Matters Month.

Join San Diego community members in raising awareness about mental health during this important event!