MetLife Stadium Meadowlands in East Rutherford, New Jersey will join more than 150 iconic landmarks and businesses nationwide in turning green in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month in May. The stadium turns green on Sunday, May 18.
The green lighting symbolizes mental health awareness and is used to promote understanding, empowerment, and the reduction of stigma associated with mental health challenges, according to Mental Health America (MHA), a national nonprofit dedicated to the promotion of mental health.
The New Jersey State House Dome in Trenton will be green on May 1 and Delta Dental of New Jersey and Connecticut in Parsippany will be green all month. Also going green all month is Hackensack Meridian Carrier Clinic/Blake Recovery Center in BelleMead.
One World Trade Center in Manhattan goes green on May 1 and the Wrigley Building in Chicago on May 5. Numerous NFL stadiums, iconic buildings, and national bridges are going green, too, all part of MHA’s campaign to get noteworthy and visible landmarks lit green.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health America established Mental Health Awareness Month in 1949 to promote public awareness and education surrounding mental health conditions, as well as the importance of prevention and early intervention. Free, anonymous, clinically validated mental health screens are available at MHAScreening.org.
This year’s Mental Health Month theme, “Turn Awareness Into Action,” focuses on how individuals can improve their personal mental health or support the larger mental health movement. MHA has an action guide with free resources to help people build resilience, manage challenges, advocate, and thrive.
Members of the public can post photos of landmarks lighting up green on Instagram and tag @MentalHealthAmerica.
Anyone interested in volunteering to photograph one of these landmarks for MHA can Email gderose@mhanational.org.
How to Go Green in May
Sponsored jointly by MHANJ and MHA, this widespread Mental Health Month initiative aims to underscore the importance of prioritizing mental well-being through educational endeavors and proactive mental health screenings.
Green is the internationally recognized color for mental health awareness, symbolizing hope, renewal, and growth, according to the Mental Health Foundation. Green represents new life, recovery, and the potential for growth and healing after facing mental health challenges.
How to “Go Green” for Mental Health Awareness:
- ◾Wear Green: Wear green clothing, ribbons, or accessories to show your support.
- ◾Light Up Green: Encourage buildings and landmarks to light up green during Mental Health Awareness Month in May.
- ◾Share on Social Media: Use green-themed graphics and messaging on social media platforms.
- ◾Get Involved: Participate in events, fundraising activities, or campaigns organized by organizations like Mental Health America and NAMI.
About Mental Health America
Mental Health America (MHA) is a national community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and promoting the overall mental health of all. MHA’s work is driven by its commitment to promote mental health as a critical part of overall wellness, including prevention services for all; early identification and intervention for those at risk; integrated care, services, and supports for those who need them; with recovery as the goal. Learn more at MHAnational.org.