How BCS Supports Mental Health Across Brooklyn

According to the Mayor’s Office, 1 in 5 New Yorkers experience mental health-related illnesses annually, with Brooklyn reporting roughly 261,000 adults (12.9%) struggling with depression. Statistics like these raise the opportunity to challenge stigma, encourage conversations, and connect people with care. At Brooklyn Community Services, we do this work every day through programs that help our neighbors find mental health support, stability, and community.

Our mental well-being is connected to everyday life: having a safe place to live, meaningful relationships, access to care, and opportunities to learn and work. BCS recognizes these connections and meets Brooklynites where they are, with services that support their individual needs and goals.

Creating Spaces for Healing and Belonging

Across BCS, mental health support takes many forms.

Our Personalized Recovery Oriented Services (PROS) program helps adults living with mental health challenges build skills and work toward greater independence. Through art therapy, group programming, and other recovery services, participants can explore their strengths and pursue personal goals.

At Greater Heights Clubhouse, members and staff work side by side in daily operations, build relationships, and access employment, education, and housing support. Having a place to contribute and belong helps members build confidence and strengthen community connections.

Our Transitional Living Community (TLC) provides counseling, temporary shelter, and assistance securing permanent housing for women experiencing homelessness and mental health challenges. This support helps participants work toward stability while addressing their needs with dignity.

Building Connection Before a Crisis

For young adults, CHAMP creates spaces to feel seen, heard, and supported. Through counseling, wellness activities, life-skills development, education, and community building, the program helps participants recognize their strengths and build support systems.

“Suicide prevention is more than responding to a crisis. It is about building connection before a crisis happens, creating spaces where young people feel seen and heard, strengthening support systems, and reminding each person that they do not have to navigate life alone,” shares the CHAMP team.

That commitment extends across BCS. From family support and youth programming to education and employment services, our programs help Brooklynites strengthen relationships, access resources, and navigate challenges.

Support Beyond Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental health support can begin with a conversation, a creative activity, or a trusted relationship. Across our programs, BCS makes these connections possible and reminds our neighbors that help is available.

As we celebrate 160 years of service, we remain committed to a Brooklyn where people feel supported and empowered to shape their futures.

Looking for support? Explore BCS’s mental health services to learn more.

For free, confidential mental health or crisis support, call or text 988, available 24/7, or visit 988lifeline.org. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.