A local medical center is urging people who need mental health treatment to seek it during Mental Health Awareness Month.
Bridges Healthcare in Milford said it saw its highest number of new patients ever last month.
“It’s bittersweet,” said Jennifer Fiorillo, president and CEO. “It’s good that people aren’t afraid to ask for help, but at the same time, it’s worrying because we know there’s a greater sense of urgency.”
Fiorillo said while there have been improvements in recent years, the stigma surrounding mental health treatment remains a barrier.
“We all know someone who struggles with mental health issues, and we all may struggle with it ourselves, and there’s nothing to be ashamed of about it,” Fiorillo said.
Future holidays could also be a trigger.
“Today is Memorial Day, and whoever is mourning may be feeling sad,” Fiorillo says. “That’s why they associate this holiday with the person they lost.” If you or someone you know needs help, Bridges has trained counselors available 24/7 on their hotline at 203-878-6365. “We need to treat mental health like any other illness and not be afraid to ask for help,” Fiorillo says.
The “Rock the Dock” event, taking place May 30 at Lisman Landing in Downtown Milford, will raise funds for local mental health resources.
