Ocean Partnership for Children Celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month

TOMS RIVER, N.J. - May 13, 2025 - PRLog -- Toms River, NJ – In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Ocean Partnership for Children (OPC) is proudly spotlighting Game Changers, a free 7-week boys social emotional learning (SEL) group. The group is a non-clinical boys self-esteem and empowerment group rooted in the principles of social-emotional learning.

Social-Emotional Learning encompasses the development of core emotional intelligence skills, including self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, relationship building, and responsible decision-making. SEL practices are proven to reduce stress, improve mental health, and enhance academic and life outcomes, making them a powerful tool for fostering resilience, empathy, and positive social interactions.

"We believe that mental health and emotional well-being are essential components of a healthy and thriving community. By offering the Game Changers group to the Ocean County community, we can provide individuals with the tools to manage stress, build meaningful relationships, and foster a sense of belonging," said Sean Giarratana, Game Changers Group Facilitator. "As we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month, it's more important than ever to focus on the emotional health of our communities and invest in the social-emotional skills that can transform lives."

Ocean Partnership for Children encourages everyone to get involved during Mental Health Awareness Month by participating in our youth groups, accessing our resources, and committing to a culture of mental health awareness and emotional well-being. Together, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and create supportive, nurturing environments for all individuals.

About Ocean Partnership for Children Inc.

Founded in 2005, Ocean Partnership for Children (OPC) is Ocean County's Care Management Organization (CMO). Its mission is to enhance the well-being of youth and their families through natural and community supports. OPC provides care coordination services for Ocean County youth up to 21 years who have mental health, substance use, intellectual and developmental challenges. OPC strives to keep youth at home, in school, and in the community by connecting them to resources that meet their unique needs and help them achieve their goals.

Ocean Partnership for Children is a non-profit organization available at no cost to all youth and families in Ocean County who meet the eligibility criteria of the New Jersey Children's System of care. To learn more, visit https://www.oceanpartnership.org (http://www.oceanpartnership.org/)