This May, Delta Delta of New Jersey (DDNJ) is once again joining forces with the Mental Health Association in New Jersey (MHANJ). They will be joining businesses across the country in lighting up green to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month and raise awareness about the overlooked connections between oral health and mental well-being.
The many forms of mental illnesses can often have an effect on one’s ability to maintain their oral hygiene. Consequently, research has shown that a decline in oral health only worsens the symptoms of these illnesses.
“The connection between oral health and mental health cannot be stressed enough and has been minimized for far too long. We’ve diligently worked to expand access to oral health care through our Special Health Care Needs benefit for group plans and in working with our Delta Dental of New Jersey Foundation grantees to reach the populations in dire need of this support,” said Dr. Keith Libou, Chief Clinical Officer of Delta Dental of New Jersey and MHANJ Board of Trustees member. “We are proud to be among the New Jersey business community supporting these efforts to raise awareness,” he continued.
DDNJ lit their building green, as it is the national color for mental health awareness. It symbolizes hope and renewal. The growing list of buildings in the Garden State that are going green symbolizes solidarity amongst them.
“Mental health touches every aspect of our lives, and raising awareness serves us all,” said Carolyn Beauchamp, President and CEO of MHANJ. “Our goal is to foster understanding, empower our communities, and diminish the stigma associated with mental health challenges, not just in May but every month. Going green demonstrates community, compassion, and commitment.”
MHANJ’s efforts to raise awareness includes distributing green pins, offering mental health educational programs, providing access to toolkits, promoting online mental health screenings and hosting the 18th Annual Walk for Wellness and Recovery on May 31 in Cranford, NJ.
To find more resources and take a free mental health screening, visit mhanj.org.