New Public Service Announcement Raises Awareness About Youth Mental Health

Campaign Helps Link Parents and Caregivers to NJ DCF Behavioral Health Services

TRENTON – The NJ Department of Children & Families has launched a Public Service Announcement to promote the services of the department’s Children’s System of Care (CSOC) to parents, caregivers and the general public.  CSOC serves children and youth that may be experiencing emotional, behavioral health, and/or substance use challenges, children with intellectual or developmental disabilities, as well as their families.

“This past year has dramatically changed the lives of children and youth, impacting their sense of security and overall mental health and wellness,” said NJ DCF Commissioner Christine Norbut Beyer.   “This PSA will promote the services and interventions available through CSOC, that can help children, teens and young adults cope with the emotional and mental health effects of a year-long pandemic, displacement from school and civil unrest.”

The department’s Children’s System of Care provides coordinated access to a wide range of services, provided in home, in community or out of home, for children and youth up to age 21 who meet the individual program criteria.

The Public Service Announcement, which will be part of a 12-week  social media campaign, is one aspect of a multipronged communications plan developed by the department to outreach and inform parents and the general public about how and when to access services provided by CSOC.

Recent studies show—and behavioral health and child welfare experts agree—that the COVID-19 pandemic is having an impact on the emotional and mental health of youth and adolescents, with the potential to increase self-harm and youth suicide.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated feelings of isolation, depression and anxiety among young people,” said CSOC’s Assistant Commissioner Mollie Greene.   “As parents, we know that those feelings can manifest in a variety of ways, and may result in extreme behavior, such as acting out, turning to substance use, missing school, or leaving home without permission.  It’s important to know there is help.”

Parents or caregivers concerned about the emotional wellbeing of a child or youth can call the CSOC hotline to access services at any time.  CSOC works with the family to serve youth at home and in their community. Out-of-home treatment is only sought once a community-based plan has been exhausted.

To access services for children and youth under age 21 or to learn more about DCF’s Division of the Children’s System of Care (CSOC) call 1-877-652-7624.

The PSAs can be found on YouTube:

60 second,  30 second, 15 second

There are graphics and downloads, as well.

The New Jersey Department of Children and Families is the state’s first Cabinet-level agency devoted exclusively to serving and supporting children and families. It is made up of about 6,600 staff, focused on and committed to assisting and empowering residents to be safe, healthy and connected.