On Tuesday, July 22, 2025, Sioux City’s Convention Center became a hub of support and empowerment as community members gathered for the Mental Health & Wellness Expo, hosted by the Siouxland Chamber of Commerce. From 4:00 to 6:30 p.m., more than 30 local vendors offered a wide array of mental health resources, ranging from stress management and self-care to therapy access and educational materials—each aimed at promoting emotional well-being.
This free, all-ages event arrived at a poignant moment. July is recognized in the U.S. as National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, honoring the legacy of mental health advocate Bebe Moore Campbell—whose 2008 efforts led to congressional recognition of mental health issues within BIPOC communities. The expo provided a timely opportunity for Siouxland’s diverse community to actively engage with tools and strategies meant to reduce stigma and improve wellness outcomes.
Entering the Convention Center, attendees were greeted by booths staffed by mental health professionals, social service organizations, and wellness practitioners. Visitors could participate in stress reduction workshops, where individuals practiced mindfulness, guided breathing, and other relaxation techniques. Self-care demonstrations highlighted journaling, stretching, and creative outlets like art and music. Therapists and agencies shared guidance on scheduling sessions, sliding-scale payment options, and navigating insurance coverage. Educational displays covered topics such as mood tracking, emotional regulation, the link between nutrition and mental health, and the importance of social connectedness.
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A section of the venue catered specifically to children, offering art stations and mental health–focused games designed to encourage emotional expression and normalize discussions about feelings. Food and drinks were available for purchase, and organizers provided food vouchers to ensure inclusivity for those facing financial hardship.
Organizers reported strong attendance and positive feedback from the community. Many expressed appreciation for the event’s hands-on, accessible approach. One local counselor remarked, “The interest in practical tools—simple breathing exercises, journaling prompts—shows that our community is eager for hands‑on, everyday strategies that support mental wellness.”
Local schools, nonprofits, and faith-based groups participated, emphasizing long-term access to support. Organizations shared information about follow-up support groups, referrals to culturally sensitive therapists, and free helplines such as the 988 suicide and crisis number.
July’s designation as Minority Mental Health Awareness Month highlights the disparities that persist in mental healthcare for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. National statistics show that these groups are less likely to receive appropriate mental health treatment and more likely to encounter cultural stigma, language barriers, and healthcare system mistrust. The nationwide theme for the month, “Turn Awareness into Action,” emphasizes the need for tangible community outreach and ongoing support.
The Sioux City event aligns with efforts from national agencies like the CDC, which encourages culturally responsive care and community education. Locally, the expo builds on a growing movement to prioritize mental health year-round. Previous expos hosted in Siouxland have seen increasing vendor participation and rising attendance, reflecting a community-wide commitment to improving access and awareness.
Although the expo lasted just a few hours, its impact is expected to continue through follow-up programming, including ongoing partnerships between vendors and community organizations. Plans are underway for support groups, mental health workshops in schools and churches, and expanded access to multilingual and culturally tailored services.
Reflecting on the day’s success, a local mental health advocate noted, “Bringing these conversations into a visible, public space helps normalize talking about mental health. It’s all about creating connections—to tools, to each other—that can turn awareness into real well‑being.”
