Mental health is often treated separately from physical health, even though the two are deeply connected.  Recognizing that gap is more important than ever as families and communities navigate rising levels of stress, anxiety, and isolation. For Wellpoint New Jersey President Dr. Patrick Fox, the focus begins with behavioral health and the role it plays in how people think, feel, connect, and move through daily life.

“Health is about more than being free from disease,” Dr. Fox said. “It encompasses an individual’s physical, emotional, spiritual, and relational health, and ensures that they maintain strong social connections and that their basic needs are met.”

His perspective is shaped by a career rooted in mental health care. Dr. Fox is a psychiatrist who has worked at both the community level and within larger behavioral health systems, giving him a broad view of care across settings. After beginning medical school with an interest in surgery, he shifted his focus toward mental health policy, law, and bioethics, later completing a fellowship in forensic psychiatry at Yale and serving on the faculty.

Today, that experience shapes how he views health and well-being. It is not limited to diagnoses or treatment. It reflects how people experience daily life, including how they manage stress, maintain relationships, respond to challenges, and how social and economic conditions shape those experiences.

At Wellpoint New Jersey, that focus is reflected in how care is delivered, integrating behavioral and physical health services while addressing pressing social needs such as housing, food access, and employment.

That understanding is especially important as mental health challenges become more common. Nationally, more than 1 in 5 adults lives with a mental illness each year, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. In New Jersey, the National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates that approximately 1.1 million adults live with a mental health condition.

Connection plays a central role in shaping this reality and is often where challenges begin to surface.

“Humans are a highly social species. Our sense of self and of security and well-being is rooted in our connections with others,” Dr. Fox said. “In today’s digital age, we have unprecedented access to information and constant connectivity, yet many people feel increasingly disconnected and isolated from meaningful interpersonal relationships.”

That disconnect has had lasting effects. “We’re essentially experiencing a mental health epidemic, particularly with our youth, and we’re now seeing the consequences of that period of isolation,” Dr. Fox said, referring to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

He emphasizes that mental health challenges are a shared part of the human experience.

“At some point in everyone’s life they will struggle with a mental health challenge,” Dr. Fox said. “It is something we all have in common to varying degrees. Acknowledging this can reduce stigma and elicit empathy and support.” 

We all have a part to play in the well-being of others. Simple gestures such as a friendly greeting or asking someone how they are doing can help people feel connected and cared about. Shifts in mood, sleep, behavior, or social withdrawal can be early indicators that someone may need support. Recognizing these changes and expressing care and concern is often the first step to accessing help and support. 

Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to shift how we think about mental health and remind people that they are not alone.

“We all have times in our lives when we struggle,” Dr. Fox said. “If you or someone you know is experiencing a difficult time, reach out. Help is available.”