HUNTERDON COUNTY, NJ – The Board of Hunterdon County Commissioners recently presented a proclamation in recognition of May being National Mental Health Awareness Month, and to express support for the efforts of the Hunterdon County Mental Health Board and its Stigma Free Taskforce.
Upon adoption, this proclamation will be displayed in the Department of Human Services.
Commissioner Shaun C. Van Doren, who is the liaison to the Department of Human Services said, “Rates of mental illness conditions have risen since the beginning of the pandemic and has increased the need for mental health services in our community. Stigma associated with the disease of mental illness is identified as the leading reason individuals fail to seek the help they need to recover. Hunterdon County has raised awareness through the Stigma Free Taskforce to let residents know they can feel supported by their community and neighbors, and feel free to seek treatment.”
This year, the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI), celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month with the “Take the Moment” campaign. The focus is on fostering open dialogues, cultivating empathy, and understanding. This campaign also champions the importance of destigmatizing mental health by normalizing the practice of taking moments to prioritize mental health care without guilt or shame.
Since its inception in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has been a cornerstone of addressing the challenges faced by millions of Americans living with mental health conditions. Throughout the month, organizations actively participate in this national movement, dedicated to eliminating stigma, extending support, fostering public education, and advocating for policies that prioritize the well-being of individuals and families affected by mental illness.
In 2023, Commissioner Director Jeff Kuhl, who formerly served as the liaison to the Department of Human Services, spearheaded the “Stigma Free By ‘23” initiative that called on all municipalities in the county to join the campaign to create greater public awareness and education about the daunting barriers that many need to overcome when seeking mental health assistance.
The Hunterdon County Mental Health Board and its communities work to raise awareness of resources available and encourages residents to engage in care as soon as the need is identified.
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