Thousands Expected to Gather for One of the Nation’s Largest Mental Health Walks as the Need for Support Continues to Rise, Now Affecting 1 in 4 Individuals
As the need for mental health support continues to rise, NAMI Miami Dade County (the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness) will host its Sixth Annual Walk for Mental Health Awareness on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 8:00 AM at loanDepot Park. Held in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, the annual community event brings together thousands to raise awareness, provide support, and generate critical funds for NAMI Miami-Dade’s free mental health programs.
Considered one of the largest mental health walks in the country, the event is expected to draw approximately 3,000 participants, bringing together individuals, families, advocates, and community leaders in a powerful show of unity, support, and hope. The annual 5K walk continues to grow in impact and visibility, with last year’s event surpassing participation in major markets like Los Angeles –
underscoring Miami-Dade County’s commitment to prioritizing mental health.
“Mental health affects every one of us – either personally or through someone we love,” said Susan Holtzman, President & CEO of NAMI Miami-Dade. “With new data showing that 1 in 4 people are living with a mental health condition, the need for support has never been greater. This walk is about breaking stigma, building connection, and ensuring no one has to face mental health challenges alone. The
funds raised allow us to continue providing critical education, support, and advocacy for individuals and families in our community throughout the year.”
The 2026 walk will feature a strong presence from community leaders, including Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava; City of Miami Mayor Eileen Higgins; Senator René García, and Miami Dade County Commissioners Roberto J. Gonzalez (District 11); Commissioner Kionne L. McGhee (District 9); Commissioner Vicki L. Lopez (District 5); Commissioner Raquel A. Regalado (District 7); Commissioner Juan Carlos “JC” Bermudez (District 12).
During the event, NAMI Miami-Dade will honor Mayor Daniella Levine Cava with its Susan Racher Mental Health Champion Award in recognition of her leadership and commitment to advancing mental health initiatives in the community.
The morning program will also feature a live performance by the Mays High School Marching Band, and
special appearances including Billy the Marlin and other surprise guests. Attendees can also enjoy informational booths from local mental health providers, family-friendly activities, music, and a vibrant, supportive atmosphere celebrating mental health awareness and recovery.
“We invite the entire community to come together, walk together, and stand together for mental health,” said Emily Bodden, Manager of Fundraising and Special Events. “This event represents a powerful movement – one that brings people from all walks of life together to support one another and drive meaningful change.”
NAMI Miami-Dade’s Walk for Mental Health Awareness comes at a time when mental health needs are reaching unprecedented levels. New data from Mental Health America shows that 1 in 4 individuals now live with a mental health condition, an increase from previous estimates of 1 in 5. Locally, this translates to hundreds of thousands of individuals across Miami-Dade and Monroe counties living with a mental health condition – impacting not only individuals, but also their families, loved ones, and communities. These conditions can range from depression and anxiety to more complex diagnoses such as obsessive
compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia.
The impact extends beyond individuals to workplaces and the broader community. Mental health conditions remain a leading cause of workplace absenteeism, underscoring the broader effects of untreated conditions. While suicide rates in Miami-Dade County are lower than the state average, the community continues to face serious concerns, with a rate of 7.7 per 100,000 people, according to the most recent available data. Additionally, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties have seen increases in adolescent suicide and self-inflicted injury, as well as rising rates of depression among the Medicare population over the past two years, further reinforcing the urgent need for expanded mental health resources and support.
Through its free, evidence-based programs, NAMI Miami-Dade provides education, advocacy, and support for individuals living with mental health conditions and their loved ones. NAMI’s services complement clinical and therapeutic care providing an essential role in the continuum of mental health recovery, helping meet the increasing demand for care across the community.
To register, create a team, or learn more, visit NAMIWalks.org/Miami or call 305-665-2540.
About NAMI Miami-Dade
NAMI Miami-Dade County is an affiliate of the nation’s largest peer-led mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of individuals affected by a mental health condition and their families. NAMI Miami-Dade has engaged more than 98,000 students, young adults, adults, and families with its awareness, prevention, education, and support programs. These programs are free, led by NAMI-trained leaders with lived experience, and remain confidential. For more information, call 305- 665-2540 or visit NAMIMiami.org and connect with us on Facebook or Instagram at @NAMIMiami. To donate, visit NAMIMiami.org/get-involved/donate.
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