The Morris County Stigma‐Free Communities Initiative is a county‐wide program which aims to eradicate the stigma associated with mental illness and substance use disorders. We are dedicated to raising awareness of these illnesses by creating an environment where affected individuals are supported in their efforts to achieve wellness and recovery.

The Stigma Free Communities Initiative. Stigma‐Free Communities aim to inspire public interest and open dialogues about stigma. The County of Morris and several Morris County towns have already passed Stigma‐Free resolutions. Establishing Stigma‐Free Communities will raise awareness of the local mental health and recovery resources available so that no resident needs to feel hopeless or alone. Stigma‐Free Communities will encourage residents to break down barriers and be mindful of their mental health and ask for help when needed. Substance use disorders and mental illness have the potential to worsen if left untreated and complications arise when individuals do not seek help. It is essential that residents engage in care as soon as the need is identified so recovery can begin, hope is inspired and tragedies are avoided.

What is stigma? Stigma is a mark of disgrace which results from the judgment by others. When an individual is labeled by their illness they experience judgment and prejudice. Stigma brings experiences and feelings of shame, embarrassment, distress, hopelessness and reluctance to seek or accept help. As a result, stigma is the primary reason individuals do not seek help when they experience symptoms of mental illness.

Visit the Morris County Stigma Free Website for more information.

November 1, 2017 Conference: Removing the Stigma of Mental Illness and Addiction: Building Healthy Communities

 "Overdose Prevention Act"  Governor Christie signed the Overdose Prevention Act in 2013.  The law allows individuals to report drug overdoses without fear of being arrested.  Instead of viewing a person as a criminal, one who overdoses is viewed as a person who needs immediate medical attention.

Good Samaritan Law protects you from arrest for drug use and possession, paraphenalia use and posession and revoation of parole or probation based on these charges.  The protections do not extend to outstanding warrants, drug sales, and other non-drug crimes.  Visit the Drug Policy Alliance website for more information.  Flyer

For information on the disease of Mental Illness, visit the  National Alliance on Mental Health website. 

Morris County Division of Human Services Mental Health website and resources. 

Visit the Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey website to learn more about New Jersey's efforts to "unsell" drugs to the people of New Jersey, especially young people. the website also includes resources for the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Programs throughout the state. 

Morris County Division of Human Services Addiction website and resources. 

Facing Addiction Task Force Website. 

Morris County NJ Human Services Website. 

Do you know the street names of common illegal drugs? 

Commonly abused drugs and their descriptions. 

Narcotics Anonymous Website and the NJ Narcotics Anonymous Website.

Alcoholics Anonymous Website

National Council on Seniors Drug & Alcohol Rehab

 For help and hope for families, visit:  Al-Anon Website and Al-Anon NJ Website 

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.  Please view their app, which helps adults talk to kids about substance abuse.:"Talk. They Hear You" 

Vaping and Electronic Cigarettes

• NJ Addiction Treatment at Turning Point Facilities located in NJ. 
• NJ Connect for Recovery website for addiction resources. 
• Recovery Connection 
• Best Drug Rehabilitation 
• Drug Education and Prevention For Your Teen
• Addiction Center
• The Recovery Village
• Addiction Campuses
• Rehab Spot
• Drug Rehab Connections
• Health Care Providers and Insurance Carriers may also be able to provide recommendations.