Hunterdon Health Receives Donation to Create Mental Wellness Partnership Program

Mental illnesses are among the most common health conditions in the United States.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one in five adults in the United States lives with a mental illness and one in five youth ages 13-18 either currently or at some point in their life have had a seriously debilitating mental illness.  Peter and Maggie Baumann of Lebanon experienced a personal tragedy that motivated the couple to support mental wellness.  Through their generous donation to Hunterdon Health Foundation the Mental Wellness Partnership Program was created in collaboration with Hunterdon Behavioral Health, Center for Nutrition and Diabetes Management and Hunterdon Health and Wellness Centers.

The Mental Wellness Partnership Program provides fitness and nutrition services to patients of Hunterdon Behavioral Health.  The program includes nutrition and physical fitness consultations to work with individuals to set goals and personalized plans, individual fitness and nutrition coaching and access to Hunterdon Health and Wellness Centers. 

“Mental wellness is a proactive process that helps someone successfully manage life’s stresses and adapt to challenging situations.  This program will build on the existing holistic approach at Hunterdon Behavioral Health, and help our community members build resilience and improve overall function,” Gina Galiano, Psy.D.,Clinical Psychologist and Director of Outpatient Services, Hunterdon Behavioral Health.   Dr. Galiano added, “Patients will leave this program with an awareness that the way we move, eat and think sets the stage for positive transformation enabling individuals to experience a better quality of life.”

The initial 12-week program is offered free to participants with transition to a plan that supports lifelong health and wellness.  Providers include a behavioral health outpatient services director, wellness coordinator, registered dietitian, exercise physiologist, certified fitness trainers and group fitness instructors.   Trainers at the Hunterdon Health and Wellness Centers completed Behavior Modification Training provided by the National Academy of Sports Medicine and Mental Health First Aid Training provided through the NJ Department of Human Services.  Participants will be referred by Hunterdon Behavioral Health to enroll in the program.

“My husband, Peter, and our family are hoping to bring much needed help to others dealing with mental health challenges through our donation. We are hoping this program will make a positive impact for those struggling with mental illness and inspire others to join us by financially supporting this program in honor of someone who has either been challenged by mental illness or are currently in need of support,” stated Maggie Baumann. 

To donate to support the Mental Wellness Partnership Program, contact Hunterdon Health Foundation at 908-788-6141 or visit www.hunterdonhealthfoundation.org.  For more information on the Mental Wellness Partnership Program, please contact mmitzak@hhsnj.org