Step Up for Mental Health: San Diego NAMI Walks and Mental Wellness Expo on April 27, 2024

The annual San Diego NAMI Walks and Mental Wellness Expo is taking place on April 27, 2024. This event, organized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness in collaboration with the County’s Health and Human Services Agency, marks the beginning of Mental Health Matters Month celebrated every May. The theme for this year’s event is “I am NAMIWALKS.”

The community is invited to join local organizations in raising awareness about mental health, combatting the stigma associated with mental health issues, and showing solidarity to remind others 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., after opening remarks. A Mental Wellness Expo, open from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., will feature 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.

It is time for San Diegans to come together and take action towards improving their mental wellbeing by participating in this important event!