Stigma-Free campaign offers information and hope at Dumont Day

On Saturday, September 7, the Dumont Stigma-Free Committee held its first-ever public event with an information booth at Dumont Day.

The Dumont Stigma-Free Committee seeks to remove the stigma attached to mental illness, so that residents in need of mental health services will seek and obtain assistance they need.

Manned throughout the day by numerous volunteers, the booth distributed a wide variety of informational and support materials to residents. Committee members were on hand to talk with their neighbors about mental health issues. Task Force volunteers handed out wristbands, stress balls, lanyards, and necklaces.

Children and teens also participated in a "Positivity Mirror", posting uplifting message on a mirror, including:

• "Be yourself. You're awesome."
• "Are you ok? Do you want to talk? I'm here."
• "I know times can be hard but you are so strong. Don't give up. :)"
• "It's ok. You'll be ok."
• "You are strong. You are brave. You are beautiful."
• "T.C.C.I.C. Take care 'cause I CARE."
• "You are beautiful and awesome."
• "Your friends are here for you!"
• "It's ok, you are safe."
• "Be strong. It will get better!"
• "Believe in yourself."

The Dumont Stigma-Free Committee meets monthly. The next public meeting is on Wednesday, September 18 at 6:30PM at the Dumont Public Library.

To learn more about the Dumont Stigma-Free Campaign, please visit http://www.dumontnj.gov/stigma-free.