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Creating a Strong Foundation for Mental Wellness

YMCA-GHD

July 31, 2025

This episode is sponsored by the Cape Ann YMCA.

The YMCA’s ONEDOOR initiative—“A Path to Mental Wellness”—is a growing, inclusive program designed to strengthen mental health across the North Shore. It encompasses free weekly group walks called Walk Talk Collective, in partnership with The HelpHUB, offering a safe space to move, connect, and share mental health experiences approachable to anyone in the community.

Led by Ranjeev Benjamin, Executive Director of Mental Wellness, the Y collaborates with clinician partners like McLean Hospital and Cartwheel to streamline connections to mental health professionals and integrate mental wellness into all Y programming. Beyond organized wellness groups, the Y fosters a strong community atmosphere where physical activity, regular programming, and flexible membership are designed to promote emotional resilience and belonging.

The City of Gloucester Health Department, through its Substance Use Prevention & Mental Health Promotion team, offers multi-community support aimed at preventing mental health and substance use challenges among youth and families. Headed by Chelsea Goldstein-Walsh, Regional Prevention Director, the local Prevention Team leads coalitions and programs designed to create substance-free, supportive environments for teens and young adults.

Together, these resources create a strong foundation for mental wellness in on the North Shore and Cape Ann. Whether you’re looking for peer connection and group activities at the Y, or crisis support and referrals through city health services, both systems work hand in hand to provide accessible mental health care across Cape Ann.

Crisis and service hotlines:

  • 988 Lifeline for free 24/7 crisis support (call or text)
  • Massachusetts Behavioral Health Helpline (833 773 2445) to locate clinicians
  • Mobile Crisis Intervention services for urgent, on site assessments by calling 877-382-1609 entering your ZIP code

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This episode is sponsored by the Cape Ann YMCA: https://www.ymca.org/locations/cape-ann-ymca

Looking for a place where your whole family can thrive? The Cape Ann YMCA was the very first YMCA on the North Shore—and today, we’re proud to serve nearly 13,000 members with something for everyone. From licensed childcare for infants through 5th grade, to teen leadership programs, to the latest fitness classes and pickleball courts—we’ve built more than just a state-of-the-art facility. With a world-class teaching team and a commitment to intergenerational health, the Cape Ann Y is where the community comes to grow stronger, together.