As the parent of a child with borderline personality disorder suicidal thoughts and attempts are all too familiar. Through my work as a mental health advocate I have learned that I am not alone. With suicide being New Jersey’s 3rd leading cause of death in youth ages 10-24, and trending upward, suicide prevention must be dealt with head on – not as an afterthought.
While is encouraging to see the conversations surrounding mental health becoming more commonplace, our state’s policies must keep up. Finding help when we need it is more than critical to care, it can make the difference between saving a life or losing one. When my son was younger we had the police come to our home after a 911 call several times. Yes, they helped to de-escalate the situation, but they were unable to offer any additional care or resources.
What I’ve learned through my speaking and advocacy work is that my story is all too common. But it doesn’t have to be. If the New Jersey Legislature acts now by passing S4502 / A5972, legislation that will establish a dedicated 40 cent monthly fee on phone lines to sustain and expand New Jersey’s mental health crisis response system we can ensure that all New Jerseyans have access to the care they need. This bill will generate critical financial support for the five regional Crisis Receiving and Stabilization Centers, mobile crisis response teams and a 24/7 988 state specific hotline. We can save lives for less than a cup of coffee a month!
I urge the Legislature to pass S4502. Our stories are proof that reform cannot wait. Let›s build a New Jersey where everyone can get the mental health care they need and deserve
Stacy Ross
Fair Haven
The article originally appeared in the November 27 – December 3, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
