Mental Health Month

May is Mental Health Month. Though 1 in 5 people will experience mental illness in their lifetime, nearly two thirds will never seek treatment. Together we can help end stigma and educate the public on mental health issues. 

You are Not Alone

We are living in a time of unprecedented uncertainty. Unfortunately, isolation, job loss, and other problems that have been exacerbated by the global pandemic are also having a major impact on mental health. Though at times it may be overwhelming, try making time to relax, practice self-care, and reach out to loved ones. If you are struggling, it’s important to know that you are not alone and there is help.

If you or someone you care about is going through a mental health crisis, don’t hesitate to call a mental health hotline:

Bergen Volunteers Cares about Mental Health

Some of the biggest contributing factors to mental health problems are family issues, low self-esteem, and poor physical health. At Bergen Volunteers, we prioritize helping vulnerable populations cope with life’s challenges and supply them with the tools they need to thrive.

Successful Families encompasses mentoring programs for parents and at-risk youth. We are all affected by the things that happen to us on a daily basis, both the negative and the positive. The Mentoring Moms & Dads and Mentoring Youth programs provide access to solid support systems for those that need them. Mentees can build resilience that not only allows them to overcome obstacles, but also makes it easier to handle future challenges.

To learn more about being matched with a mentor, or even becoming one yourself, 

contact Lisa Tredici at ltredici@bergenvolunteers.org

Engaging in volunteer activities not only imparts a sense of belonging, but when you do something you believe is meaningful, you feel empowered. Bergen LEADS, College LEADS, and Teen LEADS are programs that develop leadership skills and self-confidence. By finding new approaches to problem-solving skills, LEADers make a lasting impact in the community and gain valuable tools that they can use in their personal life.

Redefining Retirement utilizes the amazing skills and experiences of our retirees, matching their talents and interests to serve our communities.  Providing networking, collaborative efforts and training to the non-profit community strengthens our community-wide resources and responds to the physical, social, and mental wellness of others. 

To learn more about our Strengthening Community programs, 

contact Debbie Emery at demery@bergenvolunteers.org.

Seniors are often overlooked when it comes to mental health. According to Aging Care, “In older adults, depression often co-occurs with other serious illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, dementia, Parkinson's disease, and changes in mobility and independence.” With the goal of keeping seniors living independently in their homes, volunteers from the CHEER and CHORE programs perform essential tasks such as small home repairs, grocery shopping, running errands, or simply offering friendly conversation. Whether it’s preventing injury by installing a grab bar or delivering much-needed medication, these services reduce the impact that physical health has on the mental health of CHEER and CHORE clients. 

To learn more about CHEER and CHORE,

 contact the Successful Aging Team at successfulaging@bergenvolunteers.org.