By Benicia Ciara
The inaugural DWIHN Mental Health Awareness Walk brought community members together in a powerful show of support, connection, and advocacy for mental health awareness.
Held at O’Hair Park, the event’s walking route highlighted the community’s investment in wellness by passing the DWIHN 7 Mile Behavioral Health Wellness Campus.
DWIHN was joined by community leaders and advocates, including CEO James E. White, WCSO Sheriff Raphael Washington, and Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison, who emphasized the importance of early intervention and support for people experiencing mental health challenges.
“We often see people crash out, and afterward everyone says, ‘I knew it. I saw it coming,’” Bettison said. “But the question is, what did you do? You have to get involved, and you have to intervene before they lose everything. We must encourage families and stand strong with them to help people in crisis get the support they need. Be strong.”
Organizers hope the event will continue to grow in the years ahead, drawing families, advocates, and supporters from across Metro Detroit.
More than just a community walk, the initiative aims to increase awareness, reduce stigma, promote inclusion, and connect residents with resources that support overall mental wellness.
This year’s event offered more than opportunities for networking and resource sharing. It created a welcoming space where individuals and families could feel seen, heard, and supported.
Attendees had access to a variety of mental health resources and were able to connect directly with specialists and service providers dedicated to helping community members navigate everyday mental health challenges.
During the event, DWIHN Director of Communications Dayna Clark introduced a community pledge for local leaders and stakeholders to sign, demonstrating a collective commitment to advancing healthier communities.
The pledge is built upon five core pillars: promoting mental health and well-being, supporting recovery, reducing stigma, advancing equity and justice, and building stronger community connections.
For more information, follow DWIHN on Instagram and Facebook at @detroitwayneihn or visit their website.