LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A mental health festival that connects people to much-needed resources and breaks down stigmas returns to Louisville in May.

MindFEST will be held at Roots 101 African American History Museum in downtown Louisville on Sunday, May 26. The free community event includes mental health discussion workshops, health and wellness vendors, yoga, art, entertainment and food.

Emily Davis, one of MindFEST's founders, started the Wondering Mind podcast in 2021. The podcast was created to help anyone who wanted to find support, inspiration, encouragement and resources. 

"We were in dire need of mental health resources at low cost or free," Davis said. "We have so many resources, but they're not accessible or known to the general public."

Davis was diagnosed with ADHD at nine years old. While she had access to resources as a child, she knew others did not. 

"Throughout my personal experiences and all the hardships that I have had to overcome and learn about on my own, it really encouraged and motivated me to make this type of event for anyone who might be struggling," Davis said. "It can be for anyone who is afraid to tackle their own mental health or approach therapy, or anyone who wants to be educated and learn and open up to healing."

Lauren Muir, director of sponsorship for MindFEST and co-owner Martin and Muir Counseling, said the stressors of 2020 put unexpected challenges on many people.

"You could see people no matter their age, their race, what part of the city they lived in, they were struggling with their own mental health," Muir said. 

Roots 101 African American History Museum at 124 N. 1st Street continues to host the festival because of the importance of connecting to the community.

"We know that community matters and we know that mental health matters," said Lamont Collins, founder and CEO of Roots 101 African American History Museum. "Too many times in our community we don’t take mental health seriously."

MindFEST will have more than 60 mental health and wellness vendors this year. The festival has a focus on mental health for veterans with panel discussions.

"We want to bring awareness, no matter who you are or what you’ve been through, mental health happens to all of us," Muir said. "We all struggle with our mental health at some point. It’s okay to get help for your mental health."

According to the 2023 State of Mental Health in America conducted by Mental Health America, Kentucky ranks 11th in the nation for mental health and access to care. This includes being ranked No.1 for adult mental health, and 31st for youth mental health.

To learn more about MindFEST, click here. 

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