AFSP NJ/SPTS Joint Press Conference

On May 31st, the New Jersey Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) held a press conference in Red Bank, NJ with the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTS). The two organizations joined forces to emphasize the importance of mental health awareness and suicide prevention in New Jersey and to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions in these areas. The collaborative efforts of AFSP NJ and SPTS aim to support mental health and suicide prevention through education, community programs, research, advocacy, support, and resources. By raising awareness and providing necessary tools, these organizations hope to save lives and foster a culture that prioritizes mental health.

In attendance was NJ Senator Vin Gopal who was recognized for his dedication to mental health and wellness across the state. Senator Gopal has introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at making crucial investments in suicide prevention programs and services that save lives in New Jersey. Senator Gopal shared about his own struggle with mental health challenges and highlighted the importance of intervention and support from organizations like AFSP and SPTS. “We are seeing record numbers of young people, especially young women, taking their lives and it is important that we have the resources and interventions available prior to this happening,” said Senator Gopal.

US Congressman Frank Pallone was unable to attend but did ask his District Field Representative, Rafael Tafur, to read a letter written by the Congressman during the event. “Suicide is a serious issue in our communities across the United States and I commend the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide for bringing attention to suicide and mental illness and ending the stigma that surrounds them. The support, research, education, and advocacy that these organizations provide are important for the health and well-being of individuals and their families. As Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, I believe that improving our mental health system is a priority. Today’s press conference will help raise awareness of the need for more support of programs that help those affected by mental health disorders. Your mission and collaborative efforts are invaluable to these efforts and I look forward to continuing to work with you on this important cause.” stated Congressman Pallone in this letter.

The event also provided an opportunity for SPTS Youth Council student, Marykate Sharkey, to share her personal experience and advocacy efforts. Mental illness has influenced Marykate’s life for as long as she can remember; living with her older sister who has struggled with mental illness her entire life, she was exposed to the challenges of that world. She participated in the SPTS Youth Council during her entire high school career and spoke about her motivation to advocate for mental health and the impact of the council. Marykate’s story was incredibly moving and highlighted the importance of including youth in advocacy efforts.  

During the event, AFSP NJ presented Adam Clark, Senior Reporter for NJ Advance Media, with a Lifesaver Award. The Lifesaver Award was created to honor NJ heroes that help in the areas of suicide prevention and mental health awareness. “We want to recognize Adam for the work he has done to report on mental health and suicide that exemplify excellence in reporting from a public safety standpoint with a high degree of compassion,” said AFSP NJ Chapter Board Chair Wendy Sefcik in advance of the press conference. AFSP NJ also acknowledged NJ Advance Media for their expanded Editor’s Note in pieces on suicide and mental health. This Editor’s Note, which appears below, has gone above and beyond just including the numbers of the Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Crisis Text Line to describe why they have chosen to limit their reporting on deaths by suicide. They also include language, consistent with AFSP’s guidelines that suicidal thoughts and behaviors can be reduced with proper mental health support and treatment.

“Editor’s Note: NJ Advance Media typically limits reporting on suicides to those that occur in crowded public places, involve public figures or, in special circumstances, where there is a larger public impact. Suicidal thoughts and behaviors can be reduced with the proper mental health support and treatment. If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.”

Media outlets are encouraged to adhere to the Safe Reporting Guidelines when covering suicide-related news and topics. These guidelines aim to promote help-seeking behavior and minimize feelings of hopelessness among individuals who may be struggling. Substantive research has shown that safe and supportive coverage about suicide can positively deepen the public’s knowledge and mitigate suicide contagion which unsafe reporting can exacerbate.