SALT LAKE CITY — In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month this May, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) will host a series of walks across the country, aiming to unite communities and emphasize that no one is ever truly alone in their mental health journey.
Utah will join this nationwide effort with the NAMIWalk scheduled for Saturday, May 17, at Veterans Memorial Park in West Jordan. The event will kick off at 9 a.m. with registration, followed by the opening ceremony at 10 a.m. and the walk at 10:30 a.m..
Participants can register for the event online, and while there is no mandatory registration fee, donations are encouraged to help fund NAMI Utah’s mission of raising awareness and supporting mental health advocacy.
Raising Funds, Building Community
The NAMIWalks event is one of NAMI’s largest fundraising initiatives, supporting its free educational programs, advocacy efforts, and community outreach. All proceeds will directly contribute to NAMI Utah’s work in providing crucial resources for individuals affected by mental health issues.
According to a 2023 report by the United Health Foundation, 26.1% of Utahns have reported experiencing depression, a figure that surpasses the national average of 22%. The statistic highlights the need for more local support and awareness regarding mental health in the state.
A Day for Awareness and Solidarity
Robin Holcomb, interim executive director of NAMI Utah, expressed the importance of the walk, saying, “The NAMI Utah Walk is not only NAMI Utah’s most important fundraiser of the year, but it is also a community builder. It’s a time to come together and recognize that mental illness affects all of us. We’re not alone in our mental health journey—whether we battle our own mental health condition or support a loved one who is struggling.”
NAMI Utah expects hundreds of participants to join in the walk, supporting the cause and showing solidarity for those affected by mental health conditions.
