The annual San Diego NAMI Walks and Mental Wellness Expo is happening this Saturday, April 27, 2024. The event, with the theme “I am NAMIWALKS,” is organized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness in partnership with the County’s Health and Human Services Agency to kick off Mental Health Matters Month in May.
San Diegans are encouraged to participate in the event, which aims to raise awareness about mental health and combat the stigma associated with mental health topics. Dr. Luke Bergmann, Director of County Behavioral Health Services, emphasized the importance of taking care of emotional well-being every day and the opportunity the NAMIWalks provides for communities to come together.
The day begins with a free community walk around Preble Field in NTC Park at Liberty Station at 8:15 a.m., followed by a Mental Wellness Expo open from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., featuring over 100 exhibitor booths offering resources for families, children, military members, and veterans. There will also be hands-on activities to improve mental health, such as an affirmation potting station and stigma busting photo booth.
County-hosted booths include an Naloxone distribution station, face painting, a children’s activity booth, and Tai-Chi demonstrations. Those interested can register for the NAMIWalks and Mental Wellness Expo on the event website or call (619) 394-3354 for more information on registration or sponsorship opportunities. If you or someone you know is facing a mental health challenge, the Access and Crisis Line at 1-888-724-7240 is available for assistance. Additional resources can be found on the County BHS Resources webpage and the It’s Up to Us SD website.
This year’s event promises to be bigger than ever with new activities added that will help attendees learn more about mental health and how they can support themselves and others who may be struggling with these issues.
So come out this weekend to take part in this great event that aims to bring people together while also promoting awareness about mental health issues that affect so many of us daily!
