Unitarian Universalist Society: East, Mental Health Ministry

Mental illness is pervasive in the United States–far more than most people realize. In many faith communities, mental illness remains unspeakable. At UUS:E we are committed to ending the stigma surrounding mental illness. Most importantly, UUS:E’s mental health ministry seeks to make mental illness speakable. Having a culture and climate where we can talk about depression, or any other brain disorder, is of utmost importance. Somehow, we need to make a shift in our thinking to include brain disorders the same way we consider body disorders. Whether someone has cancer or depression, they don’t expect to be shunned because of either of them, but it happens. A lot of it has to do with how we name it, what language we use to describe it. We are dealing with people who are our friends or family members, people we love. We are looking at ways to show compassion for one another. We need to connect on a very human, heart-to-heart level.

UUS:E’s Mental Health Ministry provides support and recommends resources to people who have, or have had, a mental health diagnosis in their lives, as well as people who are caring for family members and friends who have, or have had, such a diagnosis.

Mind Your Health is a support network that discusses various aspects of mental health/mental illness/brain dis-ease. If you would like to get involved, have questions, or just want to talk, contact 860-646-5151 or [email protected]

Mental Health Caregivers Support Network is a support network for caregivers and families/friends of people with mental health issues. We meet as a group twice a year for a summit to discuss ideas of what members would like to do in the next six months and to affirm contact information within the group.

• Need advice on securing state and federal benefits?
• Need advice on navigating school systems and accessing mental health resources for children?
• Want information on resources available through NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Illness)?

If you would like to get involved, have questions, or just want to talk, contact the office at 860-646-5151 or [email protected]

Watch our Adult Programs, Classes and Ongoing Groups pages for special events and classes.

Pastoral Care Ministries

Caring for each other in times of personal challenge or crisis is at the heart of our congregational culture and mission. In partnership with the minister, UUS:E’s Pastoral Care Committee helps us carry out this very important internal ministry. For more information, click here.