Washington Township – Stigma Free Zone

 One in four adults experiences a diagnosable mental illness every year and many of these individuals do not seek help because of fear of shame or judgment from friends, family, and coworkers. On May 15, 2017 Washington Township made the first steps towards eliminating the stigma associated with mental illness. The elimination of mental health stigma will allow residents to get the resources they need without judgment.

Washington Township Committee passed a resolution designating the municipality a Stigma-Free Zone in order to create an environment in which residents will feel free to seek treatment for the disease of mental illness without the fear of being stigmatized. Washington Township joins the County of Morris in declaring a Stigma-Free Zone.

Washington Township hopes to raise awareness of the disease of mental illness, provide an effective way to reduce the stigma associated with the disease and encourage those who are affected to seek services and feel supported. The establishment of this Stigma-Free Zone will raise awareness of local Washington Township mental health resources so no one resident needs to feel hopeless or alone. The elimination of stigma will enable residents to ask for help when needed so recovery can begin, hope is inspired, and tragedies are avoided.

Washington Township urges anyone who would like more information on the Stigma-Free Campaign to contact the Washington Township Health Department and to help us to eliminate stigma and promote wellness amongst all Washington Township and Morris County residents.

For more information, visit: http://hs.morriscountynj.gov/stigma-free/

Last modified: May 18, 2017