Dear Neighbors,
We at NewBridge Services share in the tremendous sorrow over the sudden loss of Passaic County Sheriff Richard H. Berdnik. We offer our condolences to the entire Passaic County community and all who knew him. His death by suicide is a somber reminder of the challenges individuals face, even those who are highly respected and in positions of authority.
During this difficult time, it is important to remember that there is a role we can all play in helping to prevent suicide. If you suspect someone is in distress, speak with them, ask them how they are and offer to assist in getting them help. Suicide warning signs include:
- Hopelessness
- Uncontrolled anger and/or agitation
- Reckless behavior
- Increased use of drugs or alcohol
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Dramatic mood changes
Risk factors include:
- Trauma
- Loneliness
- Unemployment
- Grief
- Financial struggles
Here is the five-step action plan recommended by the National Institute of Mental Health:
- ASK: Ask the difficult question, “Are you thinking about killing yourself?” Studies show that this question does not increase suicidal thoughts.
- KEEP THEM SAFE: Reduce access to highly lethal items or places. Simply asking if there’s a plan and taking steps to remove or disable the means can make a significant difference.
- BE THERE: Listen carefully, acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal thoughts.
- HELP THEM CONNECT: Share the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a national network of crisis centers providing free and confidential emotional support 24/7. Additionally, encourage them to connect with trusted individuals or mental health professionals.
- STAY CONNECTED: Follow up with individuals afterward to reduce the risk of subsequent crises.
Having a suicide safety plan, a toolkit of strategies for diffusing an emotional crisis, can truly be a lifeline. Encourage friends and family to add crisis resources to their smartphones for 24/7 emotional support. Read the inspiring story here of a NewBridge client who successfully used his suicide safety plan.
If you or somebody you know needs professional help, contact NewBridge Services at (973) 316-9333 or via the NewBridge website.
When law enforcement personnel is in need of help, contact Copline at 1-800-267-5463. The 24-hour confidential hotline is answered by retired law enforcement officers.
While we grapple with this loss, let us come together as a community, supporting one another through compassion and understanding. Reach out to those around you, and together, we can build a stronger, more resilient community.
