HomeFeaturesBONJ SeriesCaldwell University Aims to Destigmatize Mental Health Issues

Caldwell University Aims to Destigmatize Mental Health Issues

Maintaining a comfortable and focused mindset isn’t always easy for individuals living, working and learning in the excitement of the 21st century. Along with trying to be successful, many people – including diligent college students – struggle with mental health issues. But often times, we don’t properly treat them for mental and emotional needs.

However, this does not always need to be the case. To help those in need, many towns – plus one university in particular – in NJ are lending a helping hand.


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Ending the Stigma of Mental Health Issues

Steve Adubato, PhD., sat down with Director of Counseling Services at Caldwell University, Robin Davenport, for an episode of One-on-One with Steve Adubato to talk about how the university is keeping their campus stigma-free in regards to metal health issues.

Davenport says Caldwell University of Essex County is completely accepting and empathetic of those with mental health issues; going so far as to become the first university or college in the state to don the “stigma-free” label.

Missy Franklin Mental Health
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“The push was to help decrease the stigma that surrounds mental illness and mental health concerns,” Davenport told Adubato, about the traditionally sensitive topic. “This was a campaign that was started by Governor Richard Codey and his wife, Mary Jo.”

Meanwhile, former New Jersey Governor Codey and his wife launched the campaign to reduce the stigma around mental illness; as well as provide public awareness about resources that are out there to deal with mental health concerns. Towns throughout the state, including Madison, West Caldwell and East Hanover, even adopt the title “Stigma-Free Towns,” Davenport says.

Likewise, Caldwell University has a wellness center with a mission “to treat the body, mind, and spirit.”

“We try to take a very holistic approach, understanding the deep connection between the mind, body and spirit,” Davenport says.

To learn more about what it means to be stigma-free on campus, check out this episode of One-on-One with Steve Adubato.

For more stories that impact New Jersey residents, click over to our Hot Topics in NJ series.


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