Hot Topics in Mental Health, the Mental Health Association in New Jersey's (MHANJ's) Podcast, kicks off the New Year with a focus on one of today’s most essential mental health advocacy skills. In the first episode of 2026, host Merrill Altberg, Director of Communications, welcomes Ruth Kaluski, MS, CRC, LMHC, Statewide Director of Strategic Programs and Mental Health First Aid. Entitled, “What Mental Health First Aid Really Means,” this session features Ruth's real-world insights on why Mental Health First Aid matters and how it helps individuals and communities respond with confidence and compassion. This episode offers practical perspective for professionals, advocates, and anyone looking to better support others.
The Mental Health Association in New Jersey is a statewide non-profit organization that strives for people to achieve victory over mental illness and substance use disorders through advocacy, education, training and services. For more information visit our website ,https://www.mhanj.org/. Email our host, Merrill Altberg, MSA, Director of Communications, at maltberg@mhanj.org.
