Among the growing concerns over teen mental health, New Jersey schools (and students themselves) have taken proactive measures to provide support for high schoolers at risk of substance abuse. NJ schools aim to tackle (issues contributing to) substance misuse through various targeted initiatives, such as counseling services and educational programs. By nurturing a supportive environment and providing resources to combat drug abuse, these efforts not only prioritize students’ well-being but also contribute to the nationwide goal of promoting healthy behaviors and preventing SUD-related harm. Let’s explore the innovative strategies employed by New Jersey schools to safeguard the mental health of their students.
A quick summary of substance abuse in New Jersey
New Jersey’s rates of drug use in the past years among individuals aged 12 or older are generally lower or very similar to the US national average. However, despite comparatively lower rates, substance abuse remains a pressing concern in the Garden State. Statistics reveal that about 6.1% of all people in New Jersey reported facing some type of substance use disorder. Also, alcohol abuse and addiction emerge as the most common substance disorders within the state, with 4.2% of individuals reporting an alcohol use disorder.
Why are students at a greater risk of substance abuse?
It’s completely understandable to imagine that students, given their vulnerability, face a heightened risk of substance abuse, a concern supported by the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (2009-2019). Here, we’ll examine insights uncovered by such studies.
Unsettling facts and insights
According to the abovementioned surveys and related data, about 15% of high school students admit to experimenting with illicit or injection drugs like cocaine, heroin, MDMA (one of the drugs most readily available to the student population), or ecstasy, while 14% abuse prescription opioids.
While MDMA (ecstasy or Molly) is notably prevalent among students, the issue of drug abuse extends beyond just illicit substances to include prescription medications as well. Percocet, a pain relief medication that combines oxycodone and acetaminophen, is frequently prescribed for moderate-to-severe pain after surgery, dental procedures, or injuries but has also become a drug of abuse. What’s more, these drugs are often being taken concurrently, with the Molly and Percocet combination becoming increasingly popular over the past decade.
In addition, there are alarming links between youth opioid use and risky sexual behaviors, with prescription drug misuse correlating with higher rates of dating violence victimization. Such substance abuse intertwines with sexual risk-taking, violence exposure, and mental health challenges, amplifying concerns about adolescent well-being and safety. That’s precisely why students in New Jersey and all other US states deserve support and readily available help during the challenging days of adolescence.
How New Jersey schools support students at risk of substance abuse
In the Garden State, school-based programs have shown significant success in identifying and aiding students at risk of substance abuse and related issues. These initiatives reduce absenteeism (staying away from school without good reason), curb substance abuse, alleviate associated problems, and foster a healthier academic environment. Let’s check out some good examples!
Student Assistance Counseling (SAC)
Student Assistance Counseling (SAC) is a vital school-community program that deals with high-risk behaviors like substance use and mental health struggles. Many NJ school districts, such as Garfield, have SAC at their disposal. SAC counselors offer direct support to students, collaborate with teachers, and involve families and professionals when necessary. Their mission is to equip students with skills to cope with the stresses of everyday school life and promote healthy living. SAC fosters partnerships with community services for a comprehensive continuum of care.
DAEF grant program
New Jersey’s Drug Abuse Education Fund (DAEF) provides evidence-based education and prevention programs for substance use disorder among K-12 students. Law enforcement and local education agencies collaborate to implement the program, focusing on schools in counties with heightened substance abuse risk. NJ’s Department of Education expects outcomes including a reduction in risk factors, increased awareness of substance abuse harm, and decreased intention to abuse.
First CADCA conference in NJ organized by students
In June 2016, more than a hundred high school students from Somerset and Hunterdon counties in New Jersey gathered for the state’s first-ever Community Anti-Drug Coalition of America (CADCA) Youth Leadership Training conference. This two-day event, organized by CADCA and the National Youth Leadership Initiative (NYLI), aimed to empower young people to prevent drug abuse in their community. Community leaders emphasized the importance of involving youth and recognizing their influential voices in creating change. This conference is just one of many initiatives undertaken over the past eight years to combat drug abuse among young people in New Jersey.
How to help adolescents at risk of substance abuse
Since institutions have limitations, individuals bear significant responsibility, as they should. Here’s how you can help out an adolescent at risk of substance abuse.
Let’s say you’re concerned about one of your kids being at risk of substance abuse. If so, you should pay close attention to your child’s opinions on drugs without lecturing them. However, it’s crucial to discuss how drug use can impact important aspects of their life, such as sports, driving, health, or appearance. Address harmful media messages that glamorize drug use and suggest ways to resist peer pressure. Also, always be prepared to discuss your history of drug use, if there’s one; explain your choices and what you’ve learned from them.
Lastly, always praise and encourage your high schoolers when they succeed. You should encourage them to find their passion and purpose. Building a strong bond with your teen can deter drug use.
Conclusion
Promoting awareness and open dialogue within the New Jersey school system is essential in addressing substance abuse disorder among its students. The key, as NJ schools see it, is to foster open discussions, address harmful media messages, and provide the necessary support for students at risk of substance abuse. By acting in such a manner through various initiatives, NJ schools empower students to make informed decisions and resist peer pressure. Through collaborative efforts within the school environment, Garden State is already working towards preventing substance abuse and promoting the overall well-being of its student population.
