The Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Department of Human Services’ Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Misuse, will host a free educational webinar on Wednesday, September 16th, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Pathways to Wellness: Navigating the Road to Recovery & Suicide Prevention will be presented in collaboration with the New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services.
“Recovery is possible, help is available, and no one should ever feel that they must face a mental health or substance use challenge alone,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Joseph C. Bodek. “This webinar is an opportunity to connect residents and families with reliable information, compassionate support and potentially life-saving resources. We encourage everyone to join us and learn how each of us can help build a stronger and more supportive community.”
The virtual event is being held in recognition of National Recovery Month and National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, both observed throughout September. The webinar will provide information and resources related to recovery, behavioral health and suicide prevention while encouraging open, supportive conversations about these important issues.
The webinar is free and open to the public. Advance registration is required. To register, visit ucnj.org/dhs-webinar. The program will also be streamed on Facebook Live.
“Many people want to help a family member, friend or neighbor who may be struggling, but they may not know what to say or where to turn,” said Commissioner Stanley J. Neron, liaison to the Union County Human Services Advisory Council. “By making trusted information and resources easier to access, we can reduce stigma, encourage people to seek support and remind our residents that they are not alone.”
National Recovery Month promotes and supports evidence-based treatment and recovery practices while recognizing the individuals, families, service providers and communities that make recovery possible. National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month brings attention to suicide prevention, reduces stigma surrounding mental health and highlights resources available to people experiencing emotional distress or crisis.
For additional information about the webinar, contact the Union County Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Misuse at OBHSM@ucnj.org or 908-527-4844.
If you or someone you know is struggling or experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 988 to connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Free and confidential support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Online chat is also available at 988lifeline.org. If there is an immediate danger or medical emergency, call 911.ReachNJ is a central call-in line for New Jersey residents who are looking for help with a substance use disorder (SUD). If in need call New Jersey’s 24/7 helpline at 1-844-732-2465.