Louisville City Wire

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — MindFEST is returning to Louisville for a second year in a row in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. The mental health festival will be held May 21 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Roots 101 African American History Museum, 124 N. 1st St. The goal of MindFEST is to reduce the overall stigma of mental health, connect people to resources and to provide a safe space where people can lean on each other for emotional support. This year’s theme is “I Have a Story to Tell.”   

“In recent weeks, there have been unspeakable tragedies in our city and country. Unfortunately, too many of us now have stories to tell about friends, family members, co-workers and neighbors who have been taken too soon in horrific acts of violence,” said Mayor Craig Greenberg. “We need to come together to help each other heal. That starts with us talking openly about our mental health and creating meaningful change.”  

"This year's theme, ‘I Have a Story to Tell,’ speaks to the power of sharing our stories. Our stories are effective tools that can change the trajectory of someone’s life,” said Amanda Villaveces, director of Mental Health Lou. “Open conversation about our mental well-being is very important as our city continues to struggle with gun violence.”  

MindFEST is a free event infused with music, food, entertainment, art, yoga, vendors, and panel discussions. One of the discussions will be led by a panel of professionals who will share their stories related to the stigma surrounding men’s mental health.  

“It's important that our community joins together to support one another through the good and the bad and that should include experiences surrounding mental health,” said Emily Davis, president of MindFEST, founder and CEO of The Wondering Mind podcast. “MindFEST creates a space where people can learn about mental health in a fun and safe environment. We also hope it will encourage people to feel comfortable to share their story, because we all have a story to tell." 

"Historically, the Black experience in America has and continues to be characterized by trauma and violence,” said Lamont Collins, founder and CEO of the Roots 101 Museum. “We must not be afraid to tell our stories and talk about our mental health if we want to heal and build resilience. Roots 101 is proud to again host MindFEST. I encourage everyone to attend.” 

To help support the mission of MindFEST, the Louisville Bats are once again hosting Mental Health Awareness Night at Slugger Field on May 18 at 6:30 p.m. A portion of each ticket purchased will help promote and support the importance of mental wellbeing.   

To learn more about mental health resources in Louisville, visit MentalHealthLou.com. If you, or someone you know is in crisis, text LOU to 741741 or call/text the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.  

Original source can be found here.