Create your own mental health kit
In support of Somerset County’s Stigma Free mission, and to provide a safe haven for people to gather, plan for mental health safety, and access help during tough times, the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey’s (SCLSNJ) Manville branch recently hosted a ‘create your own mental health kit’ program.
“Participants felt comfortable sharing their struggles with anxiety, anger, trepidation, and grief,” said Eric Alicea. “They connected with others and shared ways to cope.”
The branch offered essential items for mental well-being and crisis management, such as: eye masks, dice and decision-maker sheets, fidget toys, mindful prompts, and mental health services brochures.
If you were unable to attend the program, explore a few librarian-curated books that might help you in your wellness journey. If you would like a custom book recommendation, email ask@sclibnj.org.
“The Anxiety First Aid Kit: Quick Tools For Extreme, Uncertain Times” by Rick Hanson
“Are U Ok?: A Guide To Caring For Your Mental Health” by Kati Morton
“Emotional First Aid: Practical Strategies For Treating Failure, Rejection, Guilt, and Other Everyday Psychological Injuries” by Guy Winch
“I Don’t Want To Talk About It: Overcoming The Secret Legacy Of Male Depression” by Terrence Real
“Self-Care For Black Men: 100 Ways To Heal And Liberate” by Jor-El Caraballo
“Languishing: How To Feel Alive Again In A World That Wears Us Down” by Corey L. M. Keyes
“Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto” by Tricia Hersey
“Stress Pandemic: The Lifestyle Solution – 9 Natural Steps To Survive, Master Stress, And Live Well” by Paul Huljich
“Hello I Want To Die Please Fix Me: Depression In The First Person” by Anna Mehler Paperny
“A Pity Party Is Still A Party: A Feel-Good Guide To Feeling Bad” by Chelsea Harvey Garner
If you have questions or require personalized mental health support, email Somerset County’s Department of Human Services staff at HumanServices@co.somerset.nj.us.
To discover all SCLSNJ has to offer, visit SCLSNJ.org or connect with SCLSNJ on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), or YouTube.
