Dianetics Volunteers Bring Mental Health Outreach to New York Streets and Subways

The Hubbard Dianetics Foundation held a free stress test and book distribution event across New York City to promote mental health awareness.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 4:51am

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The Hubbard Dianetics Foundation at the Church of Scientology of New York held a mental health outreach across New York City in early March, offering free stress tests and copies of Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health by L. Ron Hubbard at locations including Herald Square, the Times Square–42nd Street subway station and Harlem. The outreach drew a broad cross-section of New Yorkers and visitors alike, with volunteers offering support and the book to those facing personal stresses and challenges.

Why it matters

The Dianetics outreach aims to promote mental health awareness and provide resources to New Yorkers and visitors struggling with various personal issues and stresses. As a 75-year-old self-help book, Dianetics has sold over 22 million copies worldwide and is available in 50 languages, making it a widely accessible tool for those seeking to improve their mental well-being.

The details

Volunteers from the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation set up tables in high-traffic areas of New York City, including Herald Square, Times Square, and Harlem, offering free stress tests and copies of the book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health. The outreach attracted a diverse group of people, from teenagers and retirees to postal workers and business owners, both locals and visitors from countries around the world. Many participants shared personal challenges they were facing and were interested in using Dianetics as a tool to address their mental health concerns.

  • The outreach was held in early March 2026.
  • Dianetics is celebrating its 75th year since publication.

The players

Hubbard Dianetics Foundation

A non-profit organization that promotes the teachings of Dianetics, a self-help book written by L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of the Church of Scientology.

Church of Scientology of New York

The local chapter of the Church of Scientology that hosted the Dianetics outreach event in New York City.

Marty Gottlieb

A Dianetics volunteer who spoke about the positive impact of the outreach and the book's ability to help people address their mental health challenges.

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What they’re saying

“Once people see what is really bothering them and talk about it, they often want to improve their mental health. I've lived in New York all my life and have seen people facing all kinds of problems. It is rewarding to see people recognize what is holding them back and take steps to address it.”

— Marty Gottlieb, Dianetics volunteer

What’s next

The Hubbard Dianetics Foundation holds Dianetics Seminars weekly at the Church of Scientology of New York for those interested in learning more about the book and its mental health benefits.

The takeaway

The Dianetics outreach in New York City demonstrates the continued interest and demand for accessible mental health resources, particularly among diverse populations facing various personal challenges. The widespread availability of the book in multiple languages and the volunteers' efforts to connect with people directly in public spaces highlight the organization's commitment to promoting mental wellness and self-improvement.