Awareness Events

Millions of American’s lives are impacted daily by mental health conditions. To show our support, NAMI participates in several annual mental health awareness events.

Participating in a local or national NAMI event is a great way to help increase understanding of the complexity of mental illness. Through these events, we can expel myths, educate the public and show support for the many people affected by mental health conditions.

National Criminal Justice Month

March is National Criminal Justice Month. During the month of March NAMI joins others in the mental health community to highlight the impact of the criminal justice system on people with mental illness through personal stories from the people who lived this experience.

Mental Health Awareness Month

During Mental Health Awareness Month, NAMI joins the mental health community to reaffirm our commitment to building our understanding of mental illness, increasing access to treatment and ensuring those who are struggling know they are not alone.

National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day

In May, NAMI joins communities around the country during National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day to shine a light on the mental health needs of America’s youth.

Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month

In 2008, the U.S. House of Representatives designated July as Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month in honor of the leading African American novelist and journalist. Bebe was a voice for individuals and families of color affected by mental Illness — and NAMI continues her work by spreading awareness of the barriers of minority mental health and sharing stories from diverse communities.

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and Sept. 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day. NAMI observes these events by talking about suicide prevention and promoting resources and awareness, including: how you can help others and how to talk about suicide.

Mental Illness Awareness Week

In 1990, Congress established the first full week of October as Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW) in recognition of NAMI’s efforts to raise mental illness awareness. Since then, mental health advocates across the country have joined NAMI in the effort to educate the public about mental illness.