Healthy New Jersey

New Jersey Governor's Council on Mental Health Stigma

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Anxiety, depression, substance use and other mental health disorders have been highly prevalent and continue to increase, especially during traumatic situations, such as natural and manmade disasters. However, many people do not seek help for mental illnesses or substance use disorders because of stigma, whether that is felt by the individuals themselves or expressed by other people in their lives.

Never has there been a better and more necessary time for the New Jersey Governor's Council on Mental Health Stigma to forge ahead with its vitally important work to end stigma and discrimination and ensure health equity for all.

Combating stigma starts with education. This website has many resources to make people aware of the myths and the realities. To access resources, click on any of the categories in the Resources menu above.

What’s New from the Council

Gain Essential Information on Meeting Mental Health Needs for Individuals with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities at the Stigma-Free Zone Learning Collaborative’s next virtual session on May 14, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Click here for details and to register.

Stories Inspiring Progress

The best way to eliminate stigma is to educate individuals about mental health and mental illnesses, especially the fact that mental illnesses are real, just like physical health conditions, and should not incite any judgment or discrimination. Such education should include individuals’ success stories.

The New Jersey Governor’s Council on Mental Health Stigma invites individuals to share their inspiring stories.

SHARE YOUR STORY

 

Here is one of many examples:


There is hope for you as there was for me

by Emily

Emily: Grossman, MA, CPRP, a member of the Council, Senior Training and Consultation Specialist at Rutgers School of Health Professions, and author of Unlocked: 25 Keys to Recovering from Depression, Anxiety or Bipolar Disorder

Watch the video

Upcoming Events

Upcoming Events

The Dual Diagnosis: A Vision for Better Mental Healthcare for the IDD Population

05/14/2025

Gain Essential Information on Meeting Mental Health Needs for Individuals with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities at the Stigma-Free Zone Learning Collaborative’s next virtual session on May 14, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Click here for details and to register

Walking for Mental Health 70 For 70

05/01/2025

Join us in Supporting John Sarno and Mental Health. This May, in honor of his 70thbirthday and Mental Health Awareness Month, Warren resident, John Sarno, is embarking on a journey that combines two of his greatest passions:walking and advocating for mental health.....

Turn Awareness into Action Mental Health Month Planning Guide 2025

05/01/2025

Since founding Mental Health Month in 1949, each May, Mental Health America has led the charge to promote mental wellness during Mental Health Month.........

Council News

Council News

Teen suicide: Tellone explains how we can all work together to save our youth

11/15/2024

Honoree at Mental Health Association of N.J.’s Evening of Excellence, details impact her group, the Society of the Prevention of Teen Suicide, is having

Byline:

Tom Bergeron

Publication:

ROI-NJ

October 6-12, 2024 is Mental Illness Awareness Week

10/01/2024

Council Publishes New Issue of Stopping Stigma, Focusing on Serving Underserved/Marginalized Populations