Township Committee Declared May as National Mental Health Awareness Month

At the May 12th meeting, the Township Committee declared May as National Mental Health Awareness Month.   Mental health illness can  affect anyone and can develop at any time.  One in 5 people will experience a mental illness during their lifetime and 1 in 25 adults in America live with a serious mental illness.  It’s effects spread well beyond the individual to family, friends and coworkers.  Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949 to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and to stop the stigma associated with mental health.   

“The Township Committee encourages all Hillsborough residents to recognize National Mental Health Awareness Month by implementing self care strategies and by celebrating our behavioral health heroes on the frontlines,” said Mayor Doug Tomson. 

The COVID-19 pandemic represents the greatest crisis to ever hit community mental health. Feelings of worry, stress or fear are normal during a crisis. The CDC recommends taking a break from the news, connecting with loved ones, 

taking care of your body with meals, exercise and deep breathing, engaging in enjoyable activities and taking time to relax.  If self care strategies do not work then people should reach out to a loved one or an online therapist.