Brick Forms Group To Look At Superstorm Sandy's "Lasting Anxiety And Stress"

Brick officials have formed a group whose aim is preparing and assisting residents suffering from anxiety, stress and other issues related to Superstorm Sandy.

The Sandy Recovery and Mitigation Committee was formed as part Brick Township Mayor John G. Ducey's "100-Day Plan for Brick," emphasizing Superstorm Sandy recovery and long term storm preparedness. 

Among the mayor's initiatives is increasing the awareness of counseling services and mental health support groups to deal with lasting anxiety and stress related to Sandy.

“I have heard from so many of our neighbors who continue to deal with the invisible scars that were left by the storm,” said Ducey. “It is important that we guide residents to the resources that will help them to recover, not only physically, but mentally and emotionally.”

The mayor said he is conducting a thorough review of all previous and ongoing storm related efforts.

“We will be working with impacted residents as well as groups that have remained engaged in the recovery, like the Visitation Relief Center on Mantoloking Road,” said Councilman Paul Mummolo, chair of the Sandy Recovery and Mitigation Committee. “The committee’s work and our support for community partners is critical to the long term well being of Brick Township.”

All resources will be posted to the township website’s Sandy Recovery Information page at www.bricktownship.net and the township Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/BrickTwpNJGovernment

In the Brick area counseling services for storm victims are available through: Visitation Relief Center 732-746-3456 NJ Hope and Healing 877-294-HELP (4357) Preferred Behavioral Health Sandy Support & Counseling Project 732-458-1700 ext. 7147 Ocean Family Success Center Hurricane Sandy Project 732-557-5037

For Sandy specific counseling services go to the Mental Health Association of NJ's website and their Hope and Healing Page. http://www.mhanj.org/new-jersey-hope-and-healing/

“Milestones, like October’s one year anniversary, provide us with opportunities to highlight support systems. However, for those still dealing with rebuilding or financial hardships associated with the storm each day presents a challenge,” said Mayor Ducey. “Residents do not need to go through it alone and can lean on the professionals and organizations qualified to provide assistance and encouragement.”