Uptick In Suicide Deaths In Somerset County, Warns Prosecutor

SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — A recent increase in suicide deaths has prompted Somerset County officials to issue a warning and ways to help those suffering in silence.

In the past three weeks, Somerset County has had six reported suicides ranging from the ages of 16 to 91, said Prosecutor John P. McDonald and Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of County Detectives Francisco Roman Jr. on Friday.

McDonald is reminding Somerset County residents who feel they may be at risk for suicide or if they know someone who may be in a suicide crisis that support is available.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988. The Lifeline offers confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for people in distress, prevention, and crisis resources for you or your loved one.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) afsp.org also recommends calling or texting 988 to reach the Lifeline if you are in crisis and in need of support.

In Somerset County, Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services in Somerville offers a Crisis Intervention hotline and Psychiatric Emergency Screening Services at 908-526-4100, which can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

More resources are available if you or your loved one feels they are in emotional distress or suicidal crisis. Help is available at co.somerset.nj.us/government/human-services/mental-health

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