Families dealing with the challenges of mental illness often struggle to find adequate support and resources. St. Joseph’s/Candler has launched Johnny’s Bridges to Hope, a program aimed at helping families navigate the complexities of mental health conditions.
The program was inspired by Ann Lytle’s experience with her late son Johnny, who showed early signs of mental illness that were initially dismissed as a phase. As his condition became more apparent through missed school days and multiple evaluations, the family realized the need for better support systems. In response, they partnered with St. Joseph’s/Candler to create Johnny’s Bridges to Hope.
“This is a fantastic program specifically created for people who don’t feel like they fit in traditional support programs,” said Barbara Moss-Hogan, a licensed clinical social worker leading the initiative and also an oncology social worker at the Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion.
Mental illnesses can affect mood, behavior, and cognition due to factors such as chemical imbalances in the brain. Common diagnoses include depression, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders. The World Health Organization estimates that nearly one billion people worldwide are living with some form of mental illness.
“We’ve made progress as a society,” Moss-Hogan said. “But there are still people who are afraid to seek help because they fear judgement or stigma. That’s exactly why Johnny’s Bridges to Hope exists – to open up that conversation and let people know they are not alone.”
Moss-Hogan advises watching for warning signs in loved ones such as changes in routine, withdrawal from others, neglecting hygiene, avoiding eye contact or appearing downcast, talking about suicide or self-harm, or engaging in risky behaviors.
“It’s ok to ask for help,” Moss-Hogan emphasized. “You’re not alone. I’ll go anywhere there’s a need and help connect you with community resources that can make a difference.”
Johnny’s Bridges to Hope offers free and confidential services focused on helping families understand mental illness, equipping them with tools for effective support, teaching skills for managing challenging behaviors, reducing stress among caregivers, and improving resilience.
For more information or assistance from Barbara Moss-Hogan regarding Johnny’s Bridges to Hope, individuals can call 912-724-9743 or email mosshob@sjchs.org. She is also available for speaking engagements at organizations or community events.
Those needing immediate crisis assistance can contact the Georgia Crisis and Access Line at 1-800-715-4225 or reach out via the National Suicide Hotline by dialing #988; both lines operate 24/7.
