Mental Health Awareness Webinar Series - Session One: Understanding 988

 💜 Purple Swans Webinar Series | In Partnership with MHANJ 💜

At Purple Swans, we believe in the power of connection, compassion, and community. 

We are honored to partner with the Mental Health Association in New Jersey (MHANJ) to launch a webinar series dedicated to mental health awareness, support, and hope. 

Our goal is simple: to create a space where conversations feel safe, support feels accessible, and no one feels alone. Because when it comes to mental health, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. 

🌱 Session 1 

Understanding the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 

When facing a mental health or substance use crisis:

• Would you know what to do?

• When is it time to seek help?

• Where can you turn for immediate, confidential support? 

This session offers essential, potentially life-saving guidance to help you and your loved ones feel more prepared and supported. 

🌟 What You’ll Gain 

• Recognize when it’s time to seek help—and respond with confidence

• Understand how the 988 Lifeline works (what happens when you call or text)

• Learn how to access free, 24/7, confidential support

• Hear real-world insights from frontline professionals

• Feel more equipped to support your family, friends, and community 

📞You will also hear directly from a MHANJ Call Center team member, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what reaching out for help truly means. 

👩‍⚕️ Featured Speakers: 

Robert Kley: Vice President & COO, MHANJ With nearly four decades of experience, Robert has led MHANJ through major crises including 9/11, Hurricane Sandy, and COVID-19, and has built nationally recognized support programs. 

Merrill Altberg: Director of Communications, MHANJ Leads statewide communications and crisis awareness initiatives, expanding outreach and engagement across diverse communities. 

MHANJ Call Center Specialist: A dedicated crisis support specialist who provides compassionate, real-time care to individuals in distress through active listening and a human-centered approach. 

🗓️ Event Details 

⏰ May 21 8:00–9:00 PM (ET)

💻 Live on Zoom (zoom details will be provided via email post registration)

📧 We would love for you to join us. 

Together, we can create a community where understanding replaces fear, compassion replaces stigma, and support replaces silence.