Mental Health Awareness Month: A Message from Eva's Village

With May recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, it is an opportunity to shine a compassionate light on the emotional struggles that so many members of our community silently endure. As an organization rooted in service, Eva’s Village sees firsthand the growing mental health crisis unfolding across the country and right here in New Jersey. Recent data underscores this reality: here in New Jersey, over 1.1 million adults live with a mental health condition. These numbers aren’t just statistics—they represent our children, neighbors, friends, and clients. Now more than ever, awareness must be paired with action. 

One of the greatest obstacles to mental health care is the negative stigma surrounding mental health. For many individuals, the fear of being judged or misunderstood prevents them from seeking help. At Eva's Village, we often meet people who have lived for years with undiagnosed anxiety, depression, or trauma because they were ashamed to speak up or unable to afford treatment. This silence can be deadly, especially as anxiety among U.S. adults rose to 12.5% in 2023 alone. We must foster a culture where asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. 

While systemic change is essential, there are simple steps we can take to support our mental health. At Eva's Village, we encourage individuals to build routines that include movement, rest, and connection. Regular physical activity, such as walking or yoga, can help reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety. Mindfulness practices like deep breathing, journaling, or guided meditation offer tools for grounding and calm. Perhaps most importantly, staying connected with supportive friends, family members, or peer groups can be a powerful buffer against emotional isolation. These practices don’t replace professional care but can create a strong foundation for healing. 
Our team at Eva's Village understands the complexity of mental health, especially when it intersects with other challenges like poverty, homelessness, or substance use disorders. That’s why our Outpatient Mental Health Program offers licensed counseling services to both individuals in recovery and those without substance use disorders. Our experienced, compassionate therapists provide individual, group, and family therapy tailored to each person’s needs. Services are available in English and Spanish, and our clinic is open to everyone, and no one is ever turned away. If you don’t have insurance, we’re here to help you apply—while still ensuring you receive the care you need, without delay. We know healing is not linear, and we are committed to walking alongside our clients at every step of their journey. 
As we honor Mental Health Awareness Month, we call on our community to break the silence surrounding mental illness and to extend grace and empathy to those who are struggling. Whether it’s through a conversation, a shared resource, or a referral to our clinic, each act of support matters. At Eva's Village, we remain steadfast in our mission to offer hope and care to those facing mental health challenges. Together, we can build a future where no one suffers in silence and where healing is always within reach.