Mission Statement

Empowering and inspiring people of all communities to identify, pursue and sustain healthy, meaningful lives.

Goals

As the local chapter of Mental Health America and of the Mental Health Association of New York State, it is our mission to drive evidence-based practices, information, education, and resources to the residents of Suffolk County.

We believe mental health is as important as physical health, and it is our goal to ensure that all of our local needs and voices are heard and recognized by government leaders, the business community, advocacy groups, and educational organizations in our region.

History

The Association for Mental Health and Wellness (MHAW) was formed in 2014 with the merger of three successful Suffolk County organizations:

• Mental Health Association in Suffolk County
• Clubhouse of Suffolk
• Suffolk County United Veterans

In 1955, the Mental Health Association in Suffolk County was the region’s information resource for mental health professionals, schools, and community programs, and all those who served as responders for adults, children, and families who face mental health challenges. This work continues as a part of MHAW providing professional and peer practice development for the mental health workforce, speakers for community events, as well as a robust schedule of educational and public awareness programs for the community-at-large.

In 1990, Clubhouse of Suffolk was launched, offering direct services to those with psychiatric disabilities or who are facing mental health challenges for the first time. Two Centers for Recovery and Wellness offer state-of-the-art rehabilitation and clinical care, a range of self-help and mutual support groups, peer services, and Health Home care managers who ensure that adults and children with physical and behavioral health challenges get the help they need. MHAW has been recognized at the regional and national levels for offering innovative programs that engage and empower our clients.

Since 1989, Suffolk County United Veterans has distinguished itself by reaching out to, and engaging, homeless and at-risk veterans of all eras. Now a division of MHAW, Suffolk County United Veterans offers a range of peer-driven services for Veterans who are at-risk of homelessness, facing mental health challenges, or in need of help obtaining employment, food, or care management assistance.

By coming together as one organization, MHAW can now offer the region comprehensive services and advocacy that focuses on mental health as well as overall health and wellness. While our individual histories date back over 60 years, MHAW is looking towards the future:

• We aim to share and strengthen resources that are grounded in evidence-based research and that serve people of all cultures and ethnicities in our county.
• We have a mission to help those facing chronic and serious mental illness and psychiatric disabilities as well as those experiencing mental health issues for the first time.
• We will continue to focus on serving the special needs of military Veterans, especially those with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

By unifying these resources, MHAW is an even stronger organization, well-positioned to ensure that all of Suffolk County’s residents can access the resources they need.