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Suicide Prevention and Other Traumatic Loss

Suicide is a serious public health problem that causes pain, suffering, and can have a profound effect on the entire community. According to 2019 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the 14th leading cause of death in Ó£»¨ÊÓÆµ and the third leading cause of death for youth ages 10 to 24. In comparison to the national average Ó£»¨ÊÓÆµ continues to have a lower rate of suicide; regardless, suicide remains a priority area to combat within the state. Provided below are resources and information on school requirements for addressing these events and supportive resources for prevention and intervention.

Related Statutes & Regulations

All references below can be found at and at

N.J.S.A. 18A:6-112 Instruction in suicide prevention for public school teaching staff
N.J.S.A. 18A:6-113 Provision for instruction in suicide prevention in school curriculum
N.J.S.A. 30:9A-13. Youth suicide prevention program
N.J.S.A. 30:9A-25 Ó£»¨ÊÓÆµ Youth Suicide Prevention Advisory Council
N.J.S.A. 30:9A-26 Public awareness campaign on youth suicide prevention and intervention
N.J.S.A. 30:9A-24


  • Call or Text 888-222-2228
    24 hours a day - 7 days a week
    Accredited by the American Association of Suicidology, 2ND Floor confidentially serves youth and young adults (ages 10-24). Youth who call are assisted with their daily life challenges by professional staff and trained volunteers.

  • Call, Text or Chat: 988
    24 hours a day - 7 days a week

  • Call 1-888-843-4564


  • 1-877-652-7624
    24 hours a day - 7 days a week

    PerformCare helps families access publicly-funded services for Ó£»¨ÊÓÆµ children with behavioral, emotional, intellectual, developmental, and/or substance use challenges.
    PerformCare has been connecting families to services funded by the NJ Division of Children's System of Care since 2009.


  • The dual mission of the TLC is suicide prevention and trauma response assistance to schools following suicide, homicide and deaths that result from accidents and/or illnesses.

    Functioning as an interactive, statewide network, TLC offers collaboration opportunities and support to professionals working with school-age youth via education, training, consultation and coalition building to:
    • reduce suicide attempts, suicide completions, and to promote recovery of persons affected by suicide and
    • provide guidance and support in the response to a traumatic event.


  • Established in the Department of Children and Families is the Ó£»¨ÊÓÆµ Youth Suicide Prevention Advisory Council (Council). The Council is comprised of appointed Ó£»¨ÊÓÆµ citizens and representatives from several state departments. The purpose of the Council is to examine existing needs and services and make recommendations for youth suicide reporting, prevention and intervention; advise on the content of informational materials to be made available to persons who report attempted or completed suicides; and advise in the development of regulations required pursuant to N.J.S.A. § 30:9A-25 et seq.  
    For more information related to the council email:  CSOC.Director@dcf.nj.gov
  • Ó£»¨ÊÓÆµ Department of Health