A local health care center is urging those in need of mental health treatment to seek treatment during Mental Health Awareness Month.

Bridges Healthcare in Milford says it saw a record number of new intakes last month.

“It’s bittersweet," president and CEO Jennifer Fiorillo says. "It’s good in one way because people aren’t afraid to reach out for help. It’s also concerning because we know there’s more of a sense of urgency."

Fiorillo says although it's gotten better in recent years, the stigma surrounding mental health treatment still acts as a barrier.

“We all know someone, and it could even be ourselves who are impacted by mental health issues. There should be no shame in that whatsoever," said Fiorillo.

The upcoming holiday could also act as a trigger.

“It’s Memorial Day and whoever it is they might be memorializing could be sad to them," Fiorillo says. "That’s how they connect the holiday to whatever person they may have lost." If you or someone you know needs help, Bridges' 24/7 hotline has trained counselors available. It can be reached at 203-878-6365 “We should be treating mental health as any other condition that we have and not being afraid to reach out and get help," Fiorillo says.

The upcoming Rock the Dock event on May 30 at Lisman Landing in Downtown Milford will raise funds for local mental health resources.