Stigma-Free October in Morris County
Published on September 25, 2018
Events Tackle Mental Illness and Addictions - Offer Hope for Recovery
Morris County is celebrating'' a Stigma-Free October with a host of events that will feature hope and assistance to people dealing with mental illness and/or addictions. With a goal of getting them to treatment and recovery.
The countywide Stigma-Free community also is urging all county residents take the Stigma-Free individual pledge.
Yes, we understand that just taking the pledge will not make anyone better. However, it is a show of support for the hard work done by so many nonprofit providers, caring mental health and social workers, nurses and doctors, and law enforcement professionals who are working hard every day €“ mostly in anonymity €“ to deal with mental illness and addictions.
The Morris County Library in September picked up the Stigma-Free ball and ran with it, offering some great Stigma-Free events. Look at what others are doing in the next few days and into October by hosting inspiring and fun-filled events to bring people together to help eradicate the stigma associated with mental illness and substance use/abuse through creative expression, education and resources.
Mark these events on your calendar, for yourself or someone who needs help €“and take a look at the full calendar:
Sept. 26, Pompton Plains: Remembering T.J. €“ A story of Teen Depression, Lessons & Hope
October 1, Florham Park: The Legislative Response to NJ's Opioid Epidemic (breakfast)
Oct.2 (weekly, Tuesdays, Denville): NAMI Basics: Free 6-Session Course for Parents/Caregivers of Children (2-18) with Emotional, Behavioral, or Mental Health Challenges
Oct. 4, Rockaway: Knock Out Opioid Abuse Concert
Oct. 9 (and 16), Mountain Lakes: Mental Health First Aid Training Adult Module
Oct. 11, Mountain Lakes: National Depression Day FREE Screenings, from 9-11 a.m.
and from 5 -7 p.m.
Oct. 13, Montville: Expressions of Hope Art Show
Oct. 17 (monthly), Basking Ridge: Parents Enduring Loss from Addition (PELA) Group
Oct. 18, Lincoln Park: Rebound: The Chris Herren Story
Nov. 1, Randolph: Countywide Prevention Forum €“ Raising Resilient Teens in Challenging Times
Learn more:
Learn about stigma
Take the Pledge
Join the SF initiative; get more info in the toolkit.
The next Morris Stigma-Free initiative meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2 p.m.. It will be held at the Morris County Department of Human Services, 1 Medical Drive, Morris Plains, N.J. 07950.
Any municipal or schools officials who might like to attend should call Laurie Becker at 973-285-6852 or email lbecker@co.morris.nj.us
Thirty-four of Morris County's 39 towns, from Long Hill to Jefferson to Butler, are members of the countywide Stigma-Free initiative. Check out programs and offerings in your hometown.