Mental Health

Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being.

We’ve expanded our Mental Health programs because more BVMl patients suffer from depression and anxiety than in the past.

The Mental Health Program provides access to caring mental health professionals who help patients cope so they can live productive, fulfilling, healthy lives.

The Mental Health Program provides access to free, culturally-sensitive mental health care for an especially vulnerable population of working, low-income residents of Bergen County. The great majority of BVMI patients are immigrants, and many have survived trauma and abuse. All struggle daily with poverty. Patients are screened annually for anxiety and depression and are referred to one of our volunteer or staff mental health professionals when needed.

23.3% of women and 21.6% of men report symptoms of depression (SAMHSA 10/23)

32.7% of women and 24.4% of men report anxiety symptoms (SAMHSA 10/23)

About 12 million people in the United States are living with PTSD, a fraction of those who have experienced a traumatic event.

BVMI mental health visits increased by 200% in 2023 over the prior year

137 patients received mental health counseling in 2023; more than ¾ were women

The cost to provide a mental health visit at BVMI is $156, compared to the national average of $250

Patient Story

Riva: Anxiety and Depression

“I am feeling more hopeful than ever!”

Anxiety and depression are common in BVMI patients. All struggle daily with the challenges of living in poverty. Many are immigrants who suffered trauma in their home country or on their journey to the US.  Riva is one of those patients who are feeling more hopeful than ever thanks to the help she’s received from BVMI.

Gifts of Stock

BVMI welcomes the contribution of securities!

Click below for detailed instructions on how to electronically transfer (DTC) the securities you wish to donate from your brokerage account.