|
NJMentalHealthCares HelpLine helps individuals, families and communities identify, understand and effectively navigate programs that comprise the mental health and human services delivery systems. Built upon the philosophy of an individual's capacity for self-reliance and self-determination through advocacy, affirmation, education, research and service NJMentalHealthCares has exemplified commitment to service, community and integrity. |
|
Responding to Emotional Issues Caused by Superstorm Sandy
The Mental Health Association in New Jersey (MHANJ) is working closely with the New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services, Disaster and Terrorism Branch (DMHAS-DTB) to help New Jerseyans cope with the emotional stress and turmoil caused by Superstorm Sandy. One key initiative, called New Jersey Hope and Healing, is a crisis counseling program for residents who live in the disaster-declared counties.
New Jersey Hope and Healing was funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) with a sixty day grant encompassing the employment of 80 full time equivalent temporary staff members. To fulfill the mission, MHANJ created teams of Crisis Counselors who conduct on-the-ground outreach to survivors in disaster-declared counties: Atlantic, Bergen, Cape May, Essex, Hudson, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, Somerset and Union. The teams consist of trained counselors and paraprofessionals who have been offering crisis counseling, education, outreach, and information and referral services.
In addition, hours have been expanded for the New Jersey Disaster Mental Health Helpline that MHANJ provides in collaboration with DMHAS-DTB.
"MHANJ's Atlantic and Ocean County staff as well as staff from the Mental Health Association in Monmouth County, one of our affiliates, jumped in immediately after the storm was over to provide crucial emotional support to those who were displaced, and they continue to provide leadership at the local level. Since day one, we have been committed to helping to establish our own sense of calm," said Carolyn Beauchamp, MSW, ACSW, MHANJ's President and CEO.
Click here to read more.
To follow New Jersey Hope and Healing on Facebook:
|
Do You Know Someone Who Needs Help?
New Jersey Hope and Healing is here to help New Jerseyans cope with the emotional impact of recent storms and flooding.
Please help spread the word...Anyone who needs emotional support may call the New Jersey Disaster Mental Health Helpline, toll free, at 877-294-HELP (4357) (TTY: 877-294-4356). Trained counselors are available to assist anyone experiencing anxiety or depression. It is especially important for those who experience severe emotional symptoms to seek professional guidance. Visit www.disastermentalhealthnj.com for an insightful brochure and more information.
Click here for a printable flyer about New Jersey Hope and Healing in English.
|
Study Notes Correlation of
Economic Recession to Suicide
Many professionals are likely to be observing trends similar to those seen at the New Jersey MentalHealthCares HelpLine since the recession, such as a measurable increase in individuals presenting with mental health difficulties resulting from economic stress and related issues. A study was released in November documenting that US suicide rates have increased during the recession. This finding has significant implications for mental health treatment, particularly around issues of assessing individuals for suicide and employing interventions to reduce immediate suicidal crises. Click here to read more. |
Couple's Therapy has Positive Affect on
People who have PTSD
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) may significantly impact individual functioning, as well success and satisfaction in significant relationships. Many PTSD treatments focus primarily on the individual issues, while relationships can remain in distress. A recent article demonstrates how PTSD specific couple's therapy can improve overall outcomes. Click here to read more. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Call Center Statistics
August 1, 2012
through
October 31, 2012
Total Calls: 5002
Most Requested Services:
Behavioral Health
Services: 77%
Advocacy and Consumer Empowerment: 20%
|
Suicide Prevention Resources
|
Pinpointing Causes of Holiday Stress
Contributes to Coping Strategies
While intended to be a joyous time of celebrations and connections, the holiday season often presents increased stressors as well. Acknowledging and accepting all aspects of the season is key to maintaining good mental health during this time. So what are the most common reasons individuals experience holiday stress? What groups are most vulnerable? Click here to read more. |
|
New Jersey MentalHealthCares HelpLine
Answering New Jersey Suicide Calls to the
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Starting on September 4, 2012, the Mental Health Association in New Jersey's New Jersey MentalHealthCares HelpLine began to accept calls during its regular hours (weekdays, 8 am to 8 pm) to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The average answer time for a call is 15 seconds or less. Click here to read more. |
|
