Carrier Clinic Launches $40 Million Expansion to Enhance Youth Mental Health Services

Carrier Clinic, recognized for its work with adolescents facing psychiatric and co-occurring disorders, will now cater to younger patients amid rising rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts in the community. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the second leading cause of death among children aged 10 to 14. There has been a nearly 30 percent increase in admissions for mental health or substance use disorders at Carrier in recent years.

The facility includes The Cohen Community Resource & Education Center, multi-sensory rooms, an academic center, and a medical staff suite for training future mental health professionals. Robert C. Garrett, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health, emphasized the importance of the project in addressing the mental health crisis among youth, noting that over half of those affected do not receive adequate treatment. This expansion was made possible through state grants and private donations, including $10 million from the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation.

State Senator Andrew Zwicker and Assemblyman Roy Freiman were instrumental in securing state funding, highlighting a community-driven approach to this pressing issue. The Cohen Community Resource Center is designed to serve Hackensack Meridian Health staff and the wider community, providing guidance and educational seminars on mental health and substance use disorders.

Early intervention is essential for improving the quality of life for affected children, with nearly one-third of mental health conditions appearing before age 14. Kenneth Esser, Executive Vice President of Behavioral Health Transformation Services, remarked on the importance of accessible care, as recent data shows that nearly one in three young people between the ages of 12 and 17 experienced mental health issues in 2022-2023.

Hackensack Meridian’s commitment to youth mental health will also include support for families, recognizing the impact of a child’s mental illness on their caregivers. The expansion features dedicated spaces for caregiver meetings and training to assist families in supporting their children.

This significant development underlines the health network's dedication to tackling the youth mental health crisis, offering a comprehensive ecosystem of care that fosters early detection and effective treatment of mental health conditions. As Assemblyman Freiman stated, timely access to care is essential for families facing these challenges. Senator Zwicker added that this facility is a vital investment in the future of New Jersey's children.