Breaking the Stigma: San Diego NAMI Walks and Mental Wellness Expo on April 27th

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

Community members are invited to come together to raise awareness about mental health issues, combat stigma associated with mental health problems 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., following opening remarks. 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 promoting mental health wellness.

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. Those interested in attending can register 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 available through the County BHS Resources webpage and It’s Up to Us SD website which offers a calendar of events related to Mental Health Matters Month.