Thousands of people will gather in Liberty Station to raise awareness about mental illness and reduce the stigma associated with it by taking part in the annual NAMI San Diego 5K Walk/Run and HHSA Wellness Expo.
Organized by the County Health and Human Services Agency and the National Alliance on Mental Illness, this year’s walk/run will take place Saturday, April 27, 2019, from 7:30 to 11:00 a.m. at Liberty Station NTC Park, 2455 Cushing Road in Point Loma. The event is free and open to the public. Pets are also welcome. You can register or make a donation here.
The walk and wellness expo serve as the official kickoff to Mental Health Awareness Month, observed every May. The event supports Live Well San Diego, the County’s vision to improve the health, safety and well-being of all residents.
In addition to the 5K, the HHSA Wellness Expo includes a resource fair with about 100 booths, an interactive art project, art exhibit, therapy dogs, family friendly activities area and a special zone for veterans.
It is estimated that one in five adults experiences a mental health challenge in any given year. However, many don’t seek treatment because of the stigma associated with mental illness.
People experiencing a mental health challenge can access services by calling the County’s 24-hour, multilingual Access and Crisis Line at (888) 724-7240. Resources are also available at NAMI San Diego or the It’s Up to Us website.
