Mayors declare May 2025 Mental Health Awareness Month across New Jersey towns

Mental Health Awareness Month is set to take center stage in Madison, NJ, as the Borough Council officially proclaimed May 2025 as a month dedicated to mental health awareness. The proclamation highlights the critical importance of mental health to overall well-being, noting that nearly half of Americans will face a mental health diagnosis at some point in their lives.

During the meeting, council members emphasized the need for open discussions about mental health, urging community members to seek help during difficult times. The proclamation calls for prevention, early identification, and intervention as effective strategies to alleviate the burden of mental illness.

In a united front, Madison joins neighboring towns such as New Providence, Berkeley Heights, and Summit in this initiative, aiming to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. The council underscored the collective responsibility of businesses, schools, and citizens to promote mental well-being and ensure access to necessary services.

The proclamation also supports the efforts of the Crosstown Mental Health Coalition, led by Debbie Merrick, which aims to "paint our towns green" to advocate for mental health awareness and support those affected by mental illness. This initiative marks a significant step towards fostering a more understanding and supportive community for mental health issues.