Where to Find Help for Mental Health in New Jersey

Mental well-being is vital for a person’s functioning. It is not only important at the individual level but also on a societal level. Not addressing illnesses like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD, can lead to lasting effects on a person’s overall health. Fortunately, in this day and age, a range of resources is available and accessible to those wanting to seek help for any mental health issue. In this article, we'll explore various options for finding mental health support in New Jersey, including public services, private care, and community resources.

Resources to Find Help for Mental Health in New Jersey

Mental health issues can range from common issues like depression or anxiety to PTSD, schizophrenia, or BPD. Anyone can be affected by these challenges, regardless of age, gender, or other socioeconomic factors. The good news is that help is available, and you don't have to face these challenges on your own. .

Public Mental Health New Jersey Services

Like all states, public mental health services are available to all residents of New Jersey. Irrespective of income or insurance status, you can make use of these services as they are more affordable than privately owned centers.

New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS)

DMHAS is a public agency that oversees and provides community-based programs, focusing on different aspects of mental health. Some of the programs offered by DMHAS include:

Community Mental Health Centers in New Jersey

These centers provide outpatient services, which include:

• Counseling
• Therapy
• Case management

If you are wondering where you can find them, they are located throughout the state and offer support for a variety of mental health issues.

Rehab Centers

There are various rehab centers available that offer a diverse range of treatments. Rehab centers are likely to offer the following treatments:

• Inpatient care
• Partial care
• Outpatient care
• Virtual care
• Aftercare programs

DHMAS provides access to inpatient and residential treatment programs in NJ. You need to stay at the rehab around the clock to stabilize your condition. Feel free to check this resource. Rehab centers like ChoicePoint also accept state-funded insurance. Therefore, if you are sponsored by Medicaid or Medicare, you can get inpatient treatment covered.  

NJ Mental Health Helpline

NJ Mental Health Cares is a free-of-charge helpline offering confidential services. You can be connected with assistants who will help you find the right resources. Call 866-202-HELP (4357) to avail of the following services:

• Information
• Counseling
• Referrals

 NJ Mental Health Cares is available 24/7. You can see information on anything you need related to mental health.

Private Mental Health Facilities and Individuals

Apart from public resources, private mental health resources are also available in New Jersey. 

The providers of Mental Health in New Jersey a range of services include therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, and LCSW-certified counselors. You may get talk therapy with prescription medications.

Finding a Therapist

Therapy is the most commonly opted treatment for mental health issues. Whether talk therapies or psychotherapies, the best way to overcome addiction is via therapy. You can also get referrals from your therapist for other providers if needed. You can find a therapist through:

Directories Available Online

Websites like SAMHSA or TherapyDen allow patients to search for therapists in their vicinity. You can add filters to ensure that factors like insurance, treatment types, etc can be determined beforehand.

Getting Referrals from Your General Physicians

Your primary care doctor can refer you to a therapist who specializes in your specific needs. You can also get recommendations from your peers.

Insurance Provider Networks

If you are insured, your provider may have a list of in-network therapists. This can help reduce the cost of treatment. You may get a list from them.

Psychiatry Services

Medications are an important part of any treatment. For that, seeking psychiatry services are necessary. You can find a psychiatrist through the same methods as finding a therapist—online directories, referrals, and insurance networks.

Telehealth Services

Telehealth has become an increasingly popular option for mental health care after COVID. Many psychotherapists offer virtual treatments. It is more convenient for people with tight schedules and limited access to transportation.

Peer or Community Support Programs

In addition to professional care, community resources play an important role in supporting mental health. These resources include support groups, community centers, and nonprofit organizations that offer various forms of assistance.

Support Groups

Support groups provide a safe space to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. They can be helpful for individuals dealing with specific issues like grief, addiction, or chronic illness. In New Jersey, support groups are available both in-person and online. Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) New Jersey and Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) offer a variety of support groups across the state.

Community Mental Health Centers

As mentioned earlier, community mental health centers provide a range of services, including therapy, counseling, and crisis intervention. These centers often offer sliding scale fees depending on the income. This is accessible to those with low income. They can also connect you with additional community resources, such as housing assistance or job training programs. 

How to Getting Immediate Help

The above-mentioned resources are not for the cases of emergency. If there is an crisis or emergency, the good thing is to seek help right away with the following services. 

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Call 988 for free. Get confidential support 24/7. This hotline provides crisis intervention and can instantly connect you to resources.

NJ Hopeline

NJ Hopeline is New Jersey's statewide suicide prevention hotline. For support, call 855-654-6735.

911

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911. Be sure to inform the dispatcher that it is a mental health emergency so that they can send appropriate assistance.

Highlights

Finding help for mental health in New Jersey doesn't have to be overwhelming. Whether you choose to access public services, seek out private care, or utilize community resources, many options are available to support your mental well-being. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and taking the first step toward better mental health can lead to a brighter, healthier future.