Union County Acknowledges Mental Heath Awareness Month With Youth-Focused Webinar on May 13th

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month this May, the Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Office on Behavioral Health & Substance Misuse (OBHSM) are hosting a free virtual educational webinar aimed at supporting the mental well-being of children and adolescents.

The webinar, titled "Supporting Children and Youth Mental Health," will take place on May 13 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm, and will be presented by Susana Mateo, LCSW, of Union County's Division of Children and Youth Services.

"As conversations around mental health continue to grow, it's vital that we give families and caregivers the knowledge and resources needed to support children early and effectively," said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. "This webinar is an opportunity to raise awareness, reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, and offer guidance to those in our community who are supporting someone who is struggling."

The session will provide valuable tools and strategies for parents, caregivers, and community members to better understand and support the mental health needs of young people in today's world. In addition to the webinar, OBHSM invites all residents to participate in "Wear Green Day" on May 14-a simple but meaningful way to show support for mental health awareness.

"Mental health touches every family, every school, and every community," said Debbie-Ann Anderson, Director of the Union County Department of Human Services. "Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us that showing up for one another can make a lasting difference, whether through education, conversation, or acts of support."

Registration information can be found on ucnj.org/mental-health, and all community members are encouraged to attend.

The Office of Behavioral Health and Substance Misuse advises anyone needing support, information, or resources to reach out to NJ Mental Health Cares, New Jersey's behavioral health information and referral service system. Calls are answered by trained staff who provide emotional support, assessment of presenting problems, and information and referral. This is a free, confidential service with multilingual translation available.

If you or a loved one is facing mental health related distress, thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crisis, please reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, for 24/7 support. The Lifeline provides free confidential emotional support to individuals in crisis or emotional distress. To learn more about events and programs offered through the Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs.