Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being and affects how we think, feel, and act. It is an essential component of overall health and plays a vital role in how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. According to the CDC, more than 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness. Here are five takeaways from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to stay on top of your mental health and those who matter most: 

  • When it comes to mental health, small actions equal big impact – talking about mental health helps promote acceptance and encourages people to seek help.   
  • Self-care is important – when you take care of yourself, your physical and emotional health improves; you become more resilient and can find ways to manage stress in a healthy and positive way.  
  • We play a part in one another's mental wellness – language matters. The way we talk about mental health can either create prejudice and discrimination or promote acceptance and compassion.  
  • Let's support each other and make it okay to reach out and seek help whenever we need it – if you are worried about your mental health or are worried about someone you know,  there are resources and people out there who are willing to help, no matter what your situation is. 
  • No matter the situation, there is always help and there is always hope – whether we share resources, encourage others to seek help or simply are there for someone when they need us, we instill hope and can help others to reach out when they need it most.  

Put your knowledge to the test! Take this brief Mental Health Quiz provided by the CDC to see if you know the difference between common misconceptions and facts. Visit our website to learn more ways to protect your mental health. 

General Resources:

  • If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. 
  • To learn how to get support for mental health, drug, and alcohol issues, visit FindSupport.gov. 
  • To locate treatment facilities or providers, visit FindTreatment.gov or call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 800-662-HELP (4357).

Local Resources:

  • Alternatives, Inc. – is a non-profit organization that provides comprehensives services to people with mental health diagnoses.
    600 1st Ave, Raritan, NJ 08869
    Phone: (908) 685-1444
  • Jewish Family Services – is a not-for-profit, non-sectarian social service agency that provides individual, couples, child, family and group therapy.
    150-A West High Street, Somerville, NJ 08876
    Phone: (908) 725-7799
  • Community in Crisis – an organization whose mission is to lead and unite communities to reduce the incidence and consequences of the misuse of substances through education, prevention and holistic support in an environment free of stigma.
    9 Church Street, Bernardsville, NJ 07924
    Phone: (973) 434-0911

Download the full press release