In recognition of Mental Illness Awareness Week (Oct. 4–10)—an annual public education campaign established by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)—Middlesex County is shining a spotlight on its robust, year-round mental health programs, clinical care, and support services designed to help residents navigate emotional challenges and connect with professional help.
“Mental Illness Awareness Week is an important reminder that mental health challenges can affect anyone, and there may be people in our community who are struggling silently,” Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald Rios said. “Taking the time to check in on a friend, family member, or neighbor can make a meaningful difference. By talking openly about mental health, sharing available resources, and encouraging those who need support to seek help, we can reduce stigma and remind one another that no one has to face these challenges alone.”
Accessible tools and community support
Middlesex County provides a diverse array of digital platforms, community liaisons, and specialized programs to ensure residents can find assistance tailored to their individual needs:
- Behavioral Health Navigators: Serving as community liaisons, navigators offer free, individualized support and connect residents with resources for mental health, addiction, and recovery. (Assistance Line: 732-245-3810)
- CredibleMind: A free online platform enabling adult residents to explore topic-specific behavioral health modules, access tailored information, and privately track personal wellness progress.
- Pyx Health: A 24/7 mobile app designed to support teens and older adults experiencing loneliness, isolation, or depression by connecting them with trained staff, structured activities, and resources.
- Services Locator: An online tool helping residents find local programs across mental health, substance use, food assistance, housing, veterans services, and job training.
- Trualta: A free, web-based training program offering caregivers unlimited access to educational resources, personalized skills training, weekly live events, and a supportive online community.
For clinical support, the County operates The George J. Otlowski Center for Mental Health Care, which provides comprehensive outpatient care and telehealth services. Staffed by a multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, advanced practice nurses, and therapists, the center treats residents of all ages and backgrounds. (For more information, call 732-442-1666 ext. 2089).
To promote daily emotional well-being, the Otlowski Center recommends simple lifestyle practices, including establishing consistent sleep routines, staying physically active, maintaining meaningful social connections, practicing mindfulness, and setting realistic, manageable goals.
Immediate Crisis Support Resources
Residents experiencing a mental health crisis or seeking confidential support have access to several dedicated hotlines:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (available 24/7).
- NAMI HelpLine: Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), text “HelpLine” to 62640, or email
[email protected]. - NAMI Teen and Young Adult HelpLine: Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), text “Friend” to 62640, or email
[email protected]. - NAMI-NJ HelpLine: Call 1-866-626-4664 or email
[email protected].
For more information about mental health programs, services, and support tools available across the county, visit middlesexcountynj.gov/support.
