The Monmouth County Board of Freeholders, in collaboration with the Division of Behavioral Health, has announced the launch of the Stigma-Free Monmouth website.
The Monmouth County Stigma-Free Action Committee’s initiative has been developed to help spread the message for those who suffer from behavioral health illnesses and substance use disorders, according to a press release from the county.
“In 2019, New Jersey suffered from 3,021 overdose deaths, with 187 of those deaths occurring in Monmouth County,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Susan M. Kiley, liaison to the Division of Behavioral Health.
“From Jan. 1 through July 31 of this year, New Jersey has had 1,834 overdose deaths and 111 of those were in Monmouth County. This movement has been gaining momentum and the launch of the stigma-free website helps advocate awareness and education about this notable health concern,” Kiley said.
The Monmouth County Stigma-Free Action Committee believes every individual deserves to be treated with respect and that everyone should be able to get help without fear, according to the press release.
The stigma-free initiative aspires to reduce the stigmas associated with mental illnesses and substance use disorders.
Monmouth County and other stigma-free zones are raising awareness of the diseases and disorders to help create support for individuals who need to pursue treatment, according to the press release.
“We are proud to announce Monmouth County has taken action and has joined the stigma-free movement against mental illness and substance use disorders,” Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone said.
“The Monmouth County Division of Behavioral Health has launched the website Monmouth County Proud to Be Stigma-Free, which will assist residents in need of help and resources,” he said.
“According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five Americans will be affected by mental health conditions,” Kiley said. “A negative stigma toward those with this illness or substance use is toxic to the individual’s mental health.
“Stigmas are 100% curable. Monmouth County residents need to be kind and have empathy toward those with behavioral health illnesses and encourage them to seek treatment,” she said.
For more information about the Stigma-Free Monmouth site or the Monmouth County Division of Behavioral Health, visit www.visitmonmouth.com