Three Organizations Join Forces to Celebrate Emotional Wellness and the Recovery from Substance Misuse

The Mental Health Association in New Jersey (MHANJ) invites community organizations, residents, neighbors and friends to participate in its upcoming Walk/Run for Wellness and Recovery, in partnership with the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence – NJ (NCADD-NJ) and Monarch Housing Associates. The Walk/Run is scheduled for Sunday, October 6, at Johnson Park in Piscataway, NJ. The Run will begin at 8:30 a.m. and the Walk will begin at 10 a.m. Proceeds will be used to enhance advocacy, community education, training and services.

“Stigma from mental illness and inappropriate substance misuse is one of the largest barriers to seeking treatment. Our sixth annual Walk/Run for Wellness and recovery is dedicated to promoting the importance of emotional well-being and recovery from substance misuse. By participating or sponsoring a walker, New Jersey residents can take a stand in reducing stigma related to this issues while promoting mental health and recovery,” said Carolyn Beauchamp, President and CEO of the Mental Health Association in New Jersey.

“I believe it is important for our organizations to join together in this event. Many members of our constituent groups have the dual issues of mental and addictive illness. We take this opportunity to work together to acknowledge the daily reality and struggles that our populations face,” added Wayne Wirta, President and CEO of NCADD-NJ.

"Monarch Housing Associates is pleased with the opportunity to partner with the Mental Health Association of New Jersey in the Run/Walk and NCADD-NJ for Wellness and Recovery," stated Richard W. Brown, CEO of Monarch Housing Associates. "The event supports Monarch’s mission and vision. Helping individuals with mental health disabilities live in affordable homes that are integrated into the community and provide freedom and independence is critical to our work at Monarch."

45.6 Million American adults experienced a mental health problem in 2011 -- that's as many as one out of five adults in the U.S. -- according to a report from SAMHSA (the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). One of the biggest barriers to seeking treatment is the stigma that surrounds mental illness.

“It is important to note that many people who have mental health issues may also be prone to challenges with substance misuse. In addition, people who face both at the same time benefit enormously from the stability of permanent housing,” said Ms. Beauchamp.   

The Mental Health Association in New Jersey (MHANJ) is dedicated to promoting good mental health for all New Jerseyans, reducing the barriers that prevent too many people from seeking or offering help and support, and building a stronger base of support and network of services for people with mental health challenges. It is important to note that MHANJ's programs and services help over 65,000 individuals each year, and that these programs and services are provided to the public totally free of charge.

All proceeds from MHANJ’s Walk/Run for Wellness and Recovery will support the MHANJ's advocacy and service initiatives, while also supporting the work of its partners, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence - NJ (NCADD-NJ) and Monarch Housing.

For more about MHANJ’s Walk/Run for Wellness and Recovery, visit mhanj.org, call 973-571-4100, ext. 128 or email rmartin@mhanj.org.

MHANJ’s state headquarters is located in Verona, New Jersey; additional offices are located in Galloway, Jersey City, Toms River and Union. For more information about MHANJ, visit www.mhanj.org, call 973-571-4100 or follow MHANJ on Facebook.