The Governor鈥檚 Council on Mental Health Stigma was created in 2005 at the recommendation of the Governor鈥檚 Task Force on Mental Health. Its mission is to educate and enlighten the public about the importance of mental health
The Council鈥檚 annual Ambassador Awards recognize organizations and people that dedicate themselves to eradicating the stigma associated with mental illness. This year鈥檚 awardees also were recognized with individual letters from Governor Chris Christie.
鈥淧eople with mental illnesses often face societal obstacles that have nothing to do with their conditions or abilities, and more to do with how people perceive them,鈥� said Jennifer Velez, Commissioner for the Department of Human Services, which provides administrative support to the Council. 鈥淭oday, we have the opportunity to publicly thank these four business leaders who have not let stigma get in their way when developing their workforces and workplaces.鈥�
Studies indicate that mental illness affects one in four people nationwide. The Council鈥檚 mission is to dispel the ugly myths and misinformation that foster shame among people affected so they can get the help they need to recover.
鈥淯nder the leadership of Governor Chris Christie, the state has made notable investments to improve the lives of people with mental illness and allow them to live more independently, with necessary supports, in the community,鈥� said Lynn Kovich, Assistant Commissioner of DHS鈥� Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services.聽 鈥淲e congratulate these business leaders today for seeing past the lore and cultivating a workplace that promotes respect for all employees.鈥�
The Governor鈥檚 Council on Mental Health Stigma was created in 2005 at the recommendation of the Governor鈥檚 Task Force on Mental Health. Its mission is to educate and enlighten the public about the importance of mental health.
