Mental Illness Awareness Week Highlights Power of Community

Shame and stigma still stop far too many people from getting mental health care. During Mental Illness Awareness Week (Oct. 5–11), NewBridge Services is joining communities across New Jersey and the nation to build stronger connections, support well-being and break down barriers to treatment.

“When we speak honestly and listen without judgment, we make it easier for people to step forward and ask for help,” said Beth Jacobson, NewBridge’s director of Community Response and Education. “That’s how stigma starts to break down, through everyday conversations.”

The need is significant: in 2022, an estimated 59.3 million U.S. adults, nearly 1 in 4, experienced a mental illness, and only about half received treatment, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Among people with serious mental illness, about two thirds received treatment.

Many individuals also face co-occurring substance use disorders, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment and increase the urgency of timely support.

Stigma remains a major barrier. A 2025 NAMI/Ipsos poll conducted in January found that 42 percent of employees fear their careers would suffer if they spoke openly about mental health, and nearly half worry about being judged by coworkers. These fears keep people silent and isolated.

How NewBridge Is Marking Mental Illness Awareness Week 2025

One way NewBridge is helping with stigma reduction during the week is through Mental Health First Aid (MHFA). This evidence-based, eight-hour training teaches people to recognize the signs of mental health and substance use challenges, offer initial support and connect individuals to appropriate care.

“You don’t have to be a mental health professional to make a difference,” Jacobson said. “Anyone can learn how to spot the signs of a crisis, offer support in the moment, and connect someone to the help they need.”

In 2024, NewBridge trained 233 community members, including parents, educators, youth leaders and civic groups, in Adult and Youth MHFA, and 140 so far in 2025. These community-based trainings are a key part of NewBridge’s efforts to expand access to care and support mental health across New Jersey.

Take Action This Week

With Mental Illness Awareness Week underway, here’s what you can do to help:

• Talk openly about mental health to normalize help-seeking.
• Educate yourself and others using trusted resources like NAMI and MHFA.
• Take Mental Health First Aid training.
• Advocate for better access to care, from insurance coverage to community programs.
• Share help resources, including NewBridge Services at (973) 316-9333 or services@newbridge.org, and 988 for mental health crises.

Morris County is designated a Stigma-Free Community, with resources available through the county Department of Human Services. Together, honest conversations and informed action can bring down barriers and help more people get the care they need.