The Reel Minds Mental Health Film Festival is set to return on Saturday, October 10, 2026, coinciding with World Mental Health Day. Organized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Miami-Dade County, this annual event will take place at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex, aiming to raise awareness about mental health issues through film and storytelling.
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This year's festival will feature eight short films, selected from over 60 global submissions, focusing on themes of resilience, recovery, and lived experiences related to mental health. These films tackle a variety of challenges, including childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, and the impact of painful experiences, offering diverse perspectives on mental health.
Susan Holtzman, President & CEO of NAMI Miami-Dade, emphasized the power of storytelling in transforming perceptions of mental health, stating, "Every story has the power to change how we see mental health," and highlighting the festival's role in fostering dialogue and understanding within the community.
One notable entry is The Glass Child, directed by Iñaki Amechazurra and produced by Samuel Vargas, both graduates of Miami Dade College. The film explores the challenges faced by siblings of individuals with special needs, reflecting Amechazurra's personal experiences growing up with an autistic brother. The narrative addresses themes of guilt, trauma, and family dynamics.
Another featured film, Hard Conversations: Jayla and Malcolm, addresses the impact of childhood trauma within the Black community as Jayla shares her experiences with her fiancé. The film examines the struggles of discussing difficult memories with loved ones.
Filmmakers such as Amechazurra and Vargas will be present during the festival, providing attendees the chance to engage in discussions about their work. Following the screenings, participants can vote for the People’s Choice Award and engage with mental health professionals and advocates, fostering a space for reflection and connection.
A panel of judges will assess the films and award the Chrysalis Award for the film that best embodies the spirit of recovery and resilience. Judges include actress Mädchen Amick and several industry professionals in mental health and film.
The festival opens at 11:30 a.m., with screenings beginning at noon. It is open to all ages, and free parking will be available at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex, located at 212 NE 59th Terrace, Miami, FL 33137. Tickets are priced at $15, with proceeds supporting NAMI Miami-Dade’s mental health education and support programs.
NAMI Miami-Dade County is dedicated to supporting individuals affected by mental health conditions, providing education and advocacy through peer-led initiatives. For more information, visit NAMIMiami.org.