In a proactive effort to address the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health issues, the Town of Brookhaven Board unanimously voted to designate May as Mental Health Awareness Month. This was done to encourage residents, government agencies, public and private institutions, businesses, and schools to commit to increased awareness and understanding of mental health and accessible services needed for these individuals.
As part of this initiative, employees in Brookhaven Town’s Youth Bureau unveiled its program to raise awareness, “Stomp Out the Stigma,” as part of Mental Health Awareness Month this May. The initiative encouraged employees to wear sneakers on Fridays, as well as encouraging employees and visitors of Town Hall to share words of encouragement or coping strategies. These encouraging words or phrases were written on paper cut outs of sneakers and displayed on the Youth Bureau wall for all to see. With mental health concerns becoming increasingly prevalent, especially among young people, the program aims to foster open dialogue, raise awareness, and promote acceptance and support for individuals struggling with mental health challenges.
“Stomp Out the Stigma” seeks to challenge misconceptions and dismantle barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking help or speaking openly about their mental health struggles. There were additional awareness giveaways including green ribbons to pin on clothing and green foiled candy kisses. “Green” is the designated color associated with the National Mental Health Awareness Campaign. The program aims to create a culture of understanding, empathy, and acceptance surrounding mental health issues.
One of the focal points of the initiative is to create safe spaces where individuals can openly share their experiences with mental health challenges, free from fear of judgment or stigma. This support provides a vital lifeline for those struggling with mental health issues, fostering a sense of belonging and connection in times of need.
In collaboration and solidarity, Town Hall has provided a resource table in the lobby for visitors and employees alike. While raising awareness and promoting acceptance, the “Stomp Out the Stigma” program aims to connect individuals with resources they need to prioritize their mental health. Informational materials on accessing mental health care, suicide prevention hotlines, and local support groups will be available to participants, ensuring that everyone has access to the help they need, when they need it. The Town of Brookhaven’s Youth Bureau’s Sanctuary Program offers professional counseling, crisis intervention, case management information and referrals to youth 12-24 years of age who may be having difficulty with stress management, relationships with friends or family, school avoidance and more.
As Mental Health Awareness Month unfolds, the Town of Brookhaven Youth Bureau’s “Stomp Out the Stigma” program stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, signaling a bold step forward in the fight against mental health stigma. By fostering a culture of understanding, compassion, and support, the program empowers individuals to embrace their mental health journeys with courage and resilience, paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for all.