Welcome to another impactful session from the NJ4S Union Hub series, where we shine a light on the conversations that matter most to our communities. In this episode, “Breaking the Stigma: The Importance of Mental Health Awareness,” presenter Safa Basadiq leads a powerful and compassionate dialogue about how stigma continues to affect mental health—and what we can do to change that.

Safa offers thoughtful insight into how stigma shows up in schools, families, and cultural spaces, and how it prevents people from seeking the care they need. This session explores how awareness, education, and empathy can shift the narrative and help us build a culture where mental wellness is accepted, supported, and prioritized.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Understanding Stigma: What mental health stigma looks like and why it’s still so persistent
  • The Impact on Youth: How stigma affects young people’s willingness to speak up and seek help
  • Cultural and Community Influences: Why conversations about mental health can feel harder in certain communities—and how to open the door
  • The Role of Education: How schools and youth programs can help normalize mental health support
  • Steps Toward Change: What individuals and organizations can do to break the silence and build a more accepting future


Whether you’re a young person facing pressure, a caregiver trying to support a loved one, or a professional working in education or health, this session offers tools and insights to help you become a stronger mental health ally.

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For questions or collaboration, email us at: nj4sunion@preventionlinks.org