In the United States, depression has reached epidemic proportions. More than 21 million adults in America have had at least one major depressive episode which has had a profound impact on them, their loved ones, and our community. Yet, depression remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Many people suffer in silence, unaware that their feelings are part of a larger, treatable condition.
Screening for depression is essential to overall health and wellbeing. As the President and CEO of the largest hospital in New Jersey and a leading provider of behavioral health services, I am proud to announce the launch of our Depression Center for Excellence — a specialized, holistic hub for transformative care. This initiative is not just a response to a pressing healthcare need; it’s a commitment to transforming how we address mental health for all those we serve.
Mental health is as vital as physical health. However, too many of those with depression face barriers to effective care. Fragmented services, lack of access to specialists, and insufficient attention to the unique needs of each patient too often leads to delayed diagnoses, inconsistent treatment, and ultimately, poor outcomes.
We believe effective mental health care begins with open conversations between providers and patients. By promoting depression screenings, we aim to remove the stigma surrounding mental health challenges and encourage individuals to seek the help they need without fear or shame.
No two people experience depression in the same way. It manifests through complex biological, psychological, and social factors, and its treatment should reflect that complexity. A one-size-fits-all approach simply does not work. The Center will provide a full continuum of care, from early detection to innovative therapies like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and ketamine infusions, alongside traditional psychotherapy and medication management.
Investing in mental health is crucial for the overall well-being of our society. The economic costs of untreated depression—lost productivity, increased healthcare expenses, and higher rates of disability—are staggering. By prioritizing mental health screenings and accessible care, we can mitigate these costs and foster a healthier, more resilient community.
Additionally, our Center will integrate clinical research with day-to-day patient care. Depression is a complex disorder that is still not fully understood, and our patients will have the opportunity to participate in innovative research, bringing them access to the latest treatments before they are widely available. This direct pipeline from the lab to the bedside is critical, as it allows us to implement novel therapies that could be life-changing for patients who have not responded to conventional treatment.
Our center will play a vital role in educating the public, reducing stigma, and creating a culture of openness about mental health. We envision a future where depression is not something to be feared or hidden, but a condition that can be treated with the same rigor and compassion as any other physical illness. At Bergen New Bridge, we are dedicated to leading this change. Together, we can break the silence surrounding depression, promote screenings, and ensure that no one must navigate this journey alone.
Let us take this important step forward, not just on National Depression Screening Day, but every day. Your mental health matters because there is no health without mental health. Reach out, get screened, and let’s work together toward a brighter future for all.