On Tuesday, June 26, East Windsor became the second municipality in Mercer County, after Hamilton, to adopt a resolution in support of lifting the stigma surrounding mental illness and addiction. In the coming months, the County will be encouraging other municipalities to join the effort, and on July 12 the Trenton Thunder will be hosting a #StigmaFree Mercer night ball game.
Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes wrote: “As you are aware, mental illness and addiction touch everyone. We know that people with mental illness and addiction can recover with appropriate supports and services in the community, yet many avoid seeking help due to stigma and the fear of discrimination. Each of us can play a role in eliminating stigma and supporting those whose lives are affected by these conditions. However, addressing stigma takes a communitywide, collaborative approach.”
Mercer County recognizes the stigma associated with mental illness and addiction, and acknowledges that many people remain unserved in part because of the stigma of seeking help. The County is calling attention to this to bring mental illness and addiction out of the shadows and encourage treatment and support. With greater public awareness about these conditions, changes can be made to negative attitudes and behaviors.
“We seek to promote a message of hope and the belief that healing and recovery are attainable. We choose to believe in, and celebrate, consumer strength and resilience,” said Hughes. “We ask you to join us in this yearlong campaign to eliminate stigma in Mercer County, and to stand with those impacted by mental illness and addiction.”
MercerMe has joined the Mercer County Campaign to End Stigma by signing the pledge and sharing this important message.
JOIN THE MERCER COUNTY CAMPAIGN TO END STIGMA
We Stand with Those Impacted by Mental Illness & Addiction!
We pledge to increase awareness and greater understanding of mental illness and addiction, and promise to work to eliminate stigma and discrimination within our agency and larger community. We will strive to promote a message of hope and the belief that healing and recovery are attainable!
