Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, a U.S. Congresswoman representing New Jersey’s 12th district since 2015, has used her social media platform to highlight concerns about adolescent mental health and the impact of funding cuts on related programs.
On September 14, 2025, Rep. Watson Coleman cited recent statistics from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), stating: “More than 3 million adolescents aged 12 to 17 – over 12% of all children that age – had serious thoughts of suicide in the past year as of 2023, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (@samhsagov). Shockingly, 1.5 million made suicide plans,”.
She continued by addressing potential solutions and challenges: “These trends can be reversed, aided by solid support systems and access to healthcare and community resources. Many young people will need comprehensive mental health care to heal – but that will be an uphill battle when programs and funding for mental health are being cut.” (September 14, 2025).
Watson Coleman also emphasized the importance of physical activity in supporting student well-being. She wrote: “Physical activity is important to students’ mental health. Funding levels that leave schools with fewer after-school sports programs won’t result in ‘sound bodies’ for our children.” (September 14, 2025).
Watson Coleman’s remarks come amid ongoing national debates about youth mental health and school funding priorities. According to her official biography, she has served New Jersey’s 12th congressional district since replacing Rush Holt Jr. in 2015 and previously served in the New Jersey General Assembly from 2006 to 2010. Born in Camden in 1945, Watson Coleman currently resides in Ewing Township and holds a BA from Thomas Edison State University.
