TOMS RIVER, N.J. - Oct. 10, 2024 - PRLog -- As a new school year unfolds amidst a growing mental health crisis among young people, the importance of fostering a safe and supportive environment for local students is more vital than ever.

The Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTS) and its community partners, Preferred Behavioral Health and YMCA Counseling & Social Services, invite families to join an important conversation on youth and teen mental well-being, titled "Crisp Conversations: It Takes a Village to Foster Mental Health."

The event will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 22, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., at the Toms River High School North Media Center located at 1245 Freehold Road in Toms River.

Open to youth and teens of all ages, their families, and the community, the event will feature a diverse panel, including mental health professionals and a student representative, who will offer valuable insights on promoting mental wellness and building resilience among young people. Middle and high school students are encouraged to attend and will have the unique opportunity to hear directly from a peer as part of the panel.

Confirmed panelists include Judy Derosena, vice president of Counseling & Social Services at the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County, and Stacy Brief, Nassau County Youth Summit coordinator and Youth Council advisor.

The panel discussion will be moderated by SPTS Executive Director and Clinical Director Susan Tellone. A leader in youth mental health advocacy, Tellone emphasized the critical nature of this gathering.

"With the mental health crisis that our youth are experiencing, the conversation on how we can all help contribute to mental well-being is essential. The collective expertise and open discussion that this panel can present will be invaluable," Tellone said.

Tellone also highlighted the significant role of the Ocean County Human Services Department, which is funding the high school event to bring much-needed resources and training to the community. "We are committed to serving Ocean County to provide vital information to help save our youth from this crisis," she stressed.

In addition to the panel, the evening will offer engaging workshops tailored for young children led by NJ4S COMPASS, affiliated with Preferred Behavioral Group. Attendees will also be able to explore helpful resources from SPTS and partnering organizations and enjoy a complimentary dinner.

Registration is recommended for this free event and can be completed online at www.bit.ly/crispconversations.

About Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide
The Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide, Inc. (SPTS) is a 501(c)3 public charity, incorporated on January 18, 2005.  The organization was founded by two Monmouth County, New Jersey fathers who each experienced the devastating loss of a teenage child by suicide.  SPTS is dedicated to increasing awareness, saving lives and reducing the stigma of suicide through specialized training programs and mental health resources that empower students, parents, school staff and community members with the skills needed to help youth build a life of resiliency. Many organizations address mental health needs across the entire age spectrum, however SPTS is the only organization focused solely on comprehensive youth suicide prevention for ages 5-18. SPTS utilizes a holistic approach, centered on evidence-based, best practices programming to build communities where everyone is concerned about the welfare of all members of their community, is committed to an environment that supports the common good, and knows how and where to get help if someone is in need. The array of programs offered by SPTS target the network around a young person. Keep updated with SPTS by following us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About NJ4S COMPASS
The NJ4S concept was created and released by the Department of Children and Families under the Office of Family Support services with the intention to give New Jersey students and their caregivers increased, and more efficient access to safe spaces and support to build connections through prevention and mental health resources, in order to meet their needs, contributing to a positive school climate and improved overall well-being. NJ4S is locally known as NJ4S COMPASS in Ocean and Monmouth Counties and is overseen by Preferred Behavioral Health Group.

About YMCA of Greater Monmouth County
For 150 years, YMCA of Greater Monmouth County has empowered youth, improved health, and fostered connections that unite and uplift the community. Serving 42,000 people annually, we've provided over $5 million in financial assistance in the last five years. With locations in eight communities and programs integrated into more than 100 schools across Monmouth and Ocean counties, we are dedicated to strengthening communities. Named a New Jersey Top Workplace for three consecutive years by NJ Advance Media, we're based in Shrewsbury, NJ. Learn more at www.ymcanj.org.