TOMS RIVER, N.J. - TelAve -- As Helpline Awareness Week approaches (February 17-23), CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties (CONTACT) proudly underscores its vital role as a lifeline for individuals in need throughout our community. For almost 50 years, CONTACT has stood as a beacon of hope, offering free, confidential crisis intervention, resources, and referrals to community services—24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

At the heart of CONTACT's mission is a steadfast commitment to providing trained telephone listeners who respond to the diverse and often urgent needs of those in Ocean and Monmouth Counties. As a non-profit organization, CONTACT's services are powered by dedicated volunteers who believe in the organization's philosophy: Within each of us is the wisdom to answer our own problems, the strength to bear our own troubles, and the ability to live with dignity.

Every day, CONTACT's helpline serves as a critical resource for individuals facing loneliness, mental health challenges, or crisis situations. Whether someone is seeking a compassionate ear, information about local services, or guidance in navigating life's difficulties, CONTACT is here to help—free of judgment and always with confidentiality.

More on TelAve News

• New Website for Solo Agers Over 50
• Malcolm-Jamal Warner Returns to Columbia for an Unforgettable Evening of Poetry & Music
• Slightly Stoopid, Damian & Stephen Marley to headline Everwild Music Festival in 2025
• Parkbench13 Media Group Inc. Seeks Artists for Sync Licensing Opportunities
• The Elevated Table Project Revolutionizes Cannabis-Infused Cooking & Cocktails

Time to Talk Day: Breaking the Silence on Mental Health
This year, Helpline Awareness Week is proceeded by Time to Talk Day on February 6th—a day dedicated to fostering open conversations about mental health. The statistics are sobering: 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem in any given year. Despite this, many still feel isolated, ashamed, or unsupported.

Time to Talk Day reminds us of the importance of breaking the stigma around mental health and encouraging honest dialogue. "At CONTACT, we understand the power of listening and the transformative impact it can have on someone's well-being," stated Kim Santora, Executive Director of CONTACT. Whether someone is struggling with anxiety, depression, or feelings of hopelessness, CONTACT's helpline is a safe space where individuals can share their thoughts and find the support they need.

"Helpline Awareness Week and Time to Talk Day serve as crucial reminders of the need for resources like CONTACT within the community", noted Santora. "But we can't do it alone." Santora offers the following ways you can make a difference:

• Spread the Word: Share CONTACT's helpline number with friends, family, and neighbors. You never know who might need it.
• Volunteer: Join our team of trained listeners and make a meaningful impact in someone's life.
• Donate: Support our mission to provide free, confidential assistance to those in need.

CONTACT's helpline is available 24/7 at 732-240-6100. Let's work together to ensure that no one in Ocean and Monmouth Counties feels alone or unsupported. This Helpline Awareness Week, and every day, remember: It's always the right time to talk, and CONTACT is always here to listen.

More on TelAve News

• THSYU Opens New Doors for Accredited Investors, Bridging the Gap Between Traditional Finance and the Digital Asset Frontier
• Gold Coast Health Plan Among State's Top Performers for Outstanding Health Care Quality
• NC Health Official Urges Ban on Wilderness Therapy Camps Following Child's Death
• Breaking Barriers & Elevating Voices: The Top 50 Over 50 Podcast Awards Set to Make History!
• The Power Of Online Reviews & Why They Matter

About CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties
CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties is a non-profit charitable organization that provides trained telephone listeners who respond to human needs 24 hours every day. This volunteer-based organization offers free confidential crisis intervention, information on available resources, and referrals to community services. To learn more, visit https://ContactOceanMonmouth.org.