Drug addiction in New Jersey is a critical issue, with 2,914 suspected drug-related deaths in 2019, according to the NJ Chief Medical Examiner’s Office. Drug addiction affects individuals and communities statewide and includes alcohol, opioids, prescription drugs, cocaine, and methamphetamine. The key drivers include socioeconomic challenges, healthcare access gaps, and the national opioid crisis, intensified by New Jersey’s proximity to major drug trafficking routes.
This article has been enhanced with input from the Medical Director and Addiction Psychiatrist at Valley Spring Recovery Center, Dr. Michael Olla.
Check the end of each section for extra information from him.
What Are The New Jersey Addiction Statistics?
In 2022, New Jersey faced a severe public health crisis, with addiction statistics revealing 2,914 confirmed overdoses, primarily from fentanyl and heroin. The state also reported a significant incidence of alcohol abuse which resulted in the highest rate of treatment episodes. Additionally, there are notable geographical disparities in substance abuse treatment admissions, underscoring the complex and varied landscape of addiction challenges across New Jersey.
- Statewide Crisis: There are a total of 2,914 confirmed overdoses in New Jersey, indicating a significant public health crisis in 2022.
- Substance Predominance: Fentanyl is overwhelmingly the most common substance involved in overdoses, with 2,266 confirmed cases. This is followed by Heroin with 1,082 confirmed cases.
- Geographical Disparities: Essex County has the highest number of total overdoses (414), while Hunterdon has the lowest (11). This suggests that urban areas might be more affected, but it would require further investigation.
- Fentanyl and Heroin: These substances are the most prevalent in almost all counties, often accounting for the majority of overdoses.
- Other Substances: Cocaine, Methamphetamine, and Benzodiazepine are also present but generally in fewer numbers.
- Alcohol: Ethanol (alcohol) is also a significant contributor, especially in counties like Essex and Atlantic, suggesting that alcohol should not be overlooked in interventions.
- There were 98,479 hospital admissions for substance abuse treatment in New Jersey during 2019. (NJ-SAMS)
- 68% of all patients admitted to drug rehab centers in New Jersey were male, and 32% were female.
- Camden, Ocean, and Essex counties had the highest rates of admissions.
Alcohol Abuse
While much attention is given to illicit drugs, alcohol remains a significant concern in New Jersey with the second highest rate of admission to treatment for alcohol behind heroin. Its legal status and social acceptance often mask the profound impact it has on individuals, families, and communities:
- In 2021, alcohol accounted for a significant portion of treatment admissions in New Jersey, with 31,469 accounting for 36% of all substance use disorder admissions in New Jersey according to the New Jersey Department of Human Services Statewide Substance Abuse overview.
- In 2018, 15.2% of adults in New Jersey reported an episode of binge drinking in the past month, which is below the national average of 18.2% according to New Jersey State Health Assessment Data.
- New Jersey has a chronic heavy drinking rate of 5.1%, with a confidence interval ranging from 4.4% to 5.8% based on a substantial sample size of 6,981, reflecting a moderate level of chronic heavy drinking across the state.
- There are significant variations between counties. For instance, Sussex and Cape May have notably higher rates of chronic heavy drinking at 10.2% and 9.2%, respectively, each with relatively wide confidence intervals indicating greater uncertainty in these estimates. These counties also have among the highest margins of error and relative standard errors, suggesting that while heavy drinking is a concern, the estimates are less precise due to smaller sample sizes or greater variability among respondents.
County of Residence | Percent of Chronic Heavy Drinkers | Sample Size |
---|---|---|
Overall | 5.1% | 6,981 |
Atlantic | 7.8% | 200 |
Bergen | 3.9% | 589 |
Burlington | 4.4% | 310 |
Camden | 5.6% | 392 |
Cape May | 9.2% | 104 |
Cumberland | 5.5% | 103 |
Essex | 4.8% | 652 |
Gloucester | 6.5% | 192 |
Hudson | 5.2% | 740 |
Hunterdon | 6.2% | 97 |
Mercer | 6.4% | 317 |
Middlesex | 2.9% | 535 |
Monmouth | 4.6% | 402 |
Morris | 5.2% | 349 |
Ocean | 5.3% | 440 |
Passaic | 2.6% | 567 |
Salem | 4.0% | 54 |
Somerset | 4.1% | 229 |
Sussex | 10.2% | 116 |
Union | 7.8% | 495 |
Warren | 5.5% | 98 |
Opioids
In 2018, nearly 90% of drug overdoses in New Jersey involved opioids, resulting in 2,583 deaths, while opioid prescription rates were lower than the national average, and heroin and other opioids accounted for a significant portion of substance abuse treatment admissions.
- Almost 90% of drug overdoses in 2018 involved opioids, totaling 2,583 fatalities.
- New Jersey providers wrote 38.9 opioid prescriptions for every 100 persons in 2018, compared to the average U.S. rate of 51.4 prescriptions.
- There were 33,587 Substance Abuse Treatment Admissions for Heroin in 2021 accounting for 38% of all NJ rehab admissions and 6,293 for other opioids.
- 13,423 people in New Jersey used Methadone to overcome addiction to meth or heroin in 2018.
- Drug-related fatalities involving fentanyl increased from 34% to approximately 80% between 2016 and 2020 according to the Bergen County Overdose Review Team.
Stimulants
In New Jersey, the stimulant problem, particularly concerning methamphetamines, presents a significant public health concern, though it is less prevalent compared to other substances. According to the latest data on Substance Abuse Treatment Admissions in the State of New Jersey, methamphetamine users accounted for approximately 1,244 admissions, representing about 1% of the total cases. This contrasts with more prevalent substances like heroin and alcohol, which accounted for 38% and 36% of admissions respectively. Cocaine, another stimulant, accounted for 4,494 admissions or 5% of the total. These statistics highlight the broader scope of substance abuse issues in New Jersey, with stimulants like methamphetamines and cocaine contributing to the complex challenge of addressing addiction within the state.
According to the New Jersey Substance Abuse Monitoring System (NJ-SAMS), there were 98,479 hospital admissions for substance abuse treatment during 2019. About 68% of all patients were male, and 32% were female. Camden, Ocean, and Essex counties had the highest rates of admissions.
What Are The New Jersey Drug Overdose Rates And Statistics?
Essex and Camden counties reported the highest overdose deaths in New Jersey in 2022, with a statewide trend showing a general decrease in overdose deaths, though some counties experienced increases or stability in numbers according to The New Jersey Department of Human Services Statewide Substance Abuse overview.
- Essex County: This county not only has the highest total but also the highest Heroin overdoses (182) and very high Cocaine numbers (190).
- Both counties continue to report high overdose deaths, the highest in the state of NJ.
- Essex County had 450 overdose deaths in 2022 which was the most in the state.
- Camden County had 354 overdose deaths in 2022.
- Camden County: This county stands out for its high Fentanyl overdoses (285) and Cocaine numbers (149).
- Atlantic County: Shows a significant number of suspected deaths (255), which is higher than its confirmed overdose substances (171). This could indicate underreporting or delayed confirmations in the confirmed data.
- Bergen County: While not the highest, Bergen has a balanced spread of substance abuse, from Heroin (57) and Fentanyl (110) to Cocaine (36) and Benzodiazepine (41).
- Hunterdon County: This county has the least number of overdoses, indicating either a lower prevalence of drug abuse or perhaps less data reporting.
- Ocean and Monmouth Counties: These counties have high numbers of Oxycodone and Methadone overdoses compared to others, indicating a possible issue with prescription drug abuse.
County | Overdose Deaths 2022 | Overdose Deaths 2023 | Trend |
---|---|---|---|
Atlantic | 255 | 179 | Decrease |
Bergen | 186 | 130 | Decrease |
Burlington | 151 | 128 | Decrease |
Camden | 354 | 326 | Decrease |
Cape May | 44 | 33 | Decrease |
Cumberland | 76 | 76 | Stable |
Essex | 450 | 447 | Decrease |
Gloucester | 86 | 82 | Decrease |
Hudson | 167 | 186 | Increase |
Hunterdon | 18 | 11 | Decrease |
Mercer | 108 | 108 | Stable |
Middlesex | 209 | 145 | Decrease |
Monmouth | 151 | 135 | Decrease |
Morris | 64 | 69 | Increase |
Ocean | 186 | 168 | Decrease |
Passaic | 143 | 134 | Decrease |
Salem | 22 | 28 | Increase |
Somerset | 50 | 31 | Decrease |
Sussex | 28 | 23 | Decrease |
Union | 114 | 95 | Decrease |
Warren | 30 | 27 | Decrease |
Total | 2892 | 2561 | Decrease |
Overdose Deaths By Drug Type
New Jersey State and County Medical Examiners certified 2,914 deaths as being drug and/or alcohol related in 2019. The breakdown of specific drugs involved in overdoses are listed below:
How Many Drug Rehab Center Admissions Are There In New Jersey?
The total drug and alcohol treatment admissions in New Jersey across all counties amount to 82,977 cases according to the Substance Abuse 2021 Overview Department of Human Services Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services Office of Planning.
- Primary Drugs: The most common primary drugs leading to rehab admissions are Heroin (32,779 cases), followed by Alcohol (28,607 cases). Other significant categories include Marijuana/Hashish (6,575 cases), Other Opiates (5,844 cases), Cocaine/Crack (4,320 cases), Unknown & Other Drugs (3,729 cases), and Methamphetamines (1,123 cases).
- Alcohol: Leading the list, alcohol accounted for 31,469 (or 36%) of the total admissions, highlighting its pervasive presence in the lives of many New Jersey residents.
- Heroin: A close second, heroin-related admissions stood at 33,587 (or 38%), reflecting the opioid crisis’s grip on the state.
- Marijuana, Cocaine, and Others: Other substances, including marijuana (6,569 or 7%), cocaine (4,494 or 5%), and methamphetamines (1,244 or 1%), also contributed significantly to the overall admissions.
- County-wide Breakdown:
- Atlantic County reported 7,434 admissions, with Heroin being the predominant drug (3,597 cases).
- Bergen County had a total of 3,400 admissions, with the majority being for Alcohol (1,437 cases).
- Camden County showed a high number of admissions at 7,586, with a significant number for Heroin (3,005 cases).
- Essex County reported the highest admissions among all counties with 8,593 cases, primarily for Heroin (3,717 cases) and Alcohol (2,412 cases).
- Ocean County also had a high count with 6,915 admissions, with a notable number for Heroin (2,976 cases).
- Trends Across Counties: Heroin and Alcohol are the two most common substances leading to rehab admissions across most counties. However, the proportion varies, with some counties like Bergen and Morris having a higher proportion of alcohol-related admissions, while counties like Atlantic, Camden, and Ocean see a higher prevalence of heroin-related cases.
- Less Common Substances: Methamphetamines, while less common overall, show notable admissions in counties like Atlantic and Cape May. The category of Unknown & Other Drugs also contributes to a significant number of admissions, particularly in Essex and Hudson counties.
- Counties with Lower Admissions: Hunterdon, Salem, Sussex, and Warren counties report lower numbers of rehab admissions compared to others, with the primary substances varying between Alcohol, Heroin, and Other Opiates.
- Demographics of Those Seeking Treatment: Substance abuse does not discriminate. In 2021, males accounted for 60% of the admissions, while females represented 31%. The age groups most affected were those between 25-44 years, emphasizing the impact on New Jersey’s younger population.
- Referral Sources: The journey to recovery often begins with a helping hand. Over half (53%) of those admitted for treatment in 2021 were self-referred, showcasing the resilience and determination of many to seek help. Other significant referral sources included corrections-related programs (18%) and addiction services programs (10%).
County of Residence | Primary Drug Total | Alcohol | Cocaine/Crack | Heroin | Other Opiates | Marijuana/Hashish | Methamphetamines | Unknown & Other Drugs |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Atlantic | 7434 | 2076 | 324 | 3597 | 505 | 472 | 134 | 326 |
Bergen | 3400 | 1437 | 190 | 1069 | 236 | 322 | 29 | 117 |
Burlington | 4069 | 1360 | 188 | 1580 | 406 | 267 | 106 | 162 |
Camden | 7586 | 2384 | 403 | 3005 | 732 | 544 | 105 | 413 |
Cape May | 2269 | 779 | 112 | 809 | 160 | 148 | 129 | 132 |
Cumberland | 2550 | 871 | 151 | 985 | 217 | 180 | 61 | 85 |
Essex | 8593 | 2412 | 464 | 3717 | 541 | 1021 | 39 | 399 |
Gloucester | 4199 | 1246 | 239 | 1833 | 435 | 155 | 118 | 173 |
Hudson | 4378 | 1257 | 237 | 1691 | 200 | 649 | 40 | 304 |
Hunterdon | 672 | 253 | 21 | 270 | 40 | 37 | 24 | 27 |
Mercer | 3771 | 1281 | 304 | 1364 | 327 | 336 | 21 | 138 |
Middlesex | 5803 | 2309 | 297 | 2069 | 392 | 479 | 39 | 218 |
Monmouth | 5949 | 2515 | 299 | 2198 | 354 | 286 | 36 | 261 |
Morris | 2501 | 1152 | 138 | 822 | 141 | 124 | 27 | 97 |
Ocean | 6915 | 2552 | 306 | 2976 | 420 | 260 | 79 | 322 |
Passaic | 4498 | 1388 | 304 | 1799 | 229 | 542 | 16 | 220 |
Salem | 931 | 284 | 43 | 373 | 92 | 66 | 18 | 55 |
Somerset | 1566 | 738 | 63 | 449 | 104 | 137 | 18 | 57 |
Sussex | 1177 | 504 | 42 | 467 | 61 | 69 | 5 | 29 |
Union | 3608 | 1381 | 153 | 1301 | 179 | 423 | 20 | 151 |
Warren | 1108 | 428 | 42 | 405 | 73 | 58 | 59 | 43 |
Total | 82977 | 28607 | 4320 | 32779 | 5844 | 6575 | 1123 | 3729 |
The numbers paint a vivid picture, but they also underscore the resilience of New Jersey’s communities. Behind each statistic is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome, the dedication of healthcare professionals, and the unwavering support of families and loved ones.
- Highest Admissions: Essex County has the highest overall admissions with 10% of the total, primarily driven by heroin and other opiates.
- Lowest Admissions: Hunterdon County has the lowest overall admissions, making up just 1% of the total.
- Heroin Prevalence: Heroin is a significant issue in many counties, especially in Essex, Atlantic, and Camden.
- Alcohol Admissions: Ocean and Monmouth counties have higher admissions due to alcohol, making up 9% of the total alcohol-related admissions.
- Other Opiates: Camden County has a notably high percentage (13%) of admissions due to other opiates.
- Methamphetamines: Atlantic County has the highest percentage of admissions due to methamphetamines at 12%.
- Unknown & Other Drugs: Essex and Camden counties have higher percentages (11%) of admissions due to unknown and other drugs.
- Variability: Different counties have different primary drugs leading to admissions, indicating that substance abuse issues are not uniform across the state.
What Are The Major Drug Threats in New Jersey?
Alcoohol is the primary drug of choice for 40% of individuals who seek treatment for substance use disorder followed by Heroin, according to NJSAMS treatment episode admissions data. Fentanyl and heroin are the top sources of overdose in New Jersey.
- Cocaine and Crack: Street gangs distributing powdered cocaine and its potent derivative, crack, pose one of the most significant threats to New Jersey’s citizens. These drugs, known for their highly addictive nature, have led to a surge in violent crimes, with dealers and users often resorting to extreme measures to secure their next fix.
- Heroin: The grip of heroin, particularly South American heroin brought in by Colombian DTOs, is palpable in New Jersey. Accounting for a significant portion of treatment admissions, heroin’s devastating effects ripple through families, workplaces, and communities. The opioid crisis, fueled in part by heroin, has become a public health emergency in the state.
- Marijuana: While marijuana is the most prevalent drug in New Jersey, its users typically do not engage in violent crime. However, the debate around its legalization and potential medicinal use continues to shape the state’s drug narrative.
- Methamphetamine: Available in many counties, methamphetamine, or meth, is primarily distributed in central and southern parts of New Jersey. Known for its destructive effects on users’ physical appearance and mental health, meth remains a concern for law enforcement and health professionals.
- Prescription Opioids and Fentanyl: The rise in prescription opioid misuse has paved the way for synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Often mixed with other drugs to increase potency, fentanyl has been linked to a spike in overdose deaths, making it a silent but deadly threat.
- Heroin And Cocaine Use Above The national Average: The number of federal drug offenders sentenced in New Jersey is consistent with the national average; however, the percentage of heroin- and cocaine-related sentences is much higher in New Jersey than nationwide. Drug offenses composed over 35 percent of all federal sentencing cases in the state in 1999, compared with the national sentencing average of 41 percent. (National Drug Intelligence Center)
- Over 77 percent of all drug sentences in the state were cocaine- or heroin-related, a 20 percent higher ratio than the national average. More significantly, heroin sentences represent 38 percent of all federal sentencing cases, compared with 8 percent nationally. (National Drug Intelligence Center)
Understanding the major drug threats is crucial for targeted interventions. Whether it’s ramping up law enforcement efforts, increasing public awareness campaigns, or enhancing treatment options, a clear grasp of the primary challenges can lead to more effective solutions.
What Are The Drug-Related Crime Rates in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, the drug crisis extends beyond individual users, deeply entwined with organized groups that drive the transportation, distribution, and sale of illicit substances. Colombian Drug Trafficking Organizations (DTOs) dominate the cocaine and South American heroin markets, with extensive networks that make these drugs widely available across the state. These operations are a primary focus for law enforcement.
Urban centers like Newark and Jersey City have witnessed a surge in street gang activities, with groups such as the Bloods, Latin Kings, and Ñetas deeply involved in the drug trade, often using violence to secure their territories. Additionally, the Five Percenters, though not a traditional gang, are implicated in drug distribution, further complicating the drug landscape in New Jersey.
The presence of these organized groups poses significant challenges for law enforcement, necessitating multi-agency collaboration, intelligence sharing, and community involvement to effectively counteract these networks. The impact on communities is profound, contributing to increased violence and the normalization of drug use, which erodes the social fabric of neighborhoods.
Crime statistics reveal the gravity of the situation: in 2019, drug-related arrests accounted for over one-fifth of all arrests in New Jersey, with nearly 80% being standalone drug offenses. The state has invested heavily in addressing this issue, spending an estimated $5.1 billion on drug-related police arrests between 2010 and 2019. Notably, counties like Salem, Cape May, and Cumberland show high rates of drug-related arrests per 100,000 inhabitants.
Furthermore, significant racial disparities exist in drug-related arrests, with Black individuals in New Jersey being 3.3 times more likely to be arrested than their white counterparts. This statistic underscores the broader social and racial implications of the drug crisis in New Jersey.
In Jersey City, the probability of falling victim to drug-related crime varies dramatically by area, ranging from 1 in 118 in the eastern neighborhoods to 1 in 860 in the southeast parts of the city, illustrating the localized nature of drug crime distribution.
Addressing these multifaceted challenges is crucial for mitigating the drug-related crime rates in New Jersey and improving community safety and cohesion.
How Are Drugs Distributed in New Jersey?
New Jersey’s geographical position, combined with its extensive transportation infrastructure, has inadvertently made it a significant hub for drug transportation and distribution. Here’s a closer look at how the state’s unique characteristics play into this:
- Strategic Location: Nestled between the major cities of New York and Philadelphia, New Jersey’s location makes it a prime transshipment point for drugs. Its proximity to these urban centers means that drugs can be quickly moved and distributed to a vast consumer base. (nj.gov)
- Seaports and Coastline: With a 130-mile coastline and two major seaports (New York/New Jersey and Philadelphia/Camden), the state offers multiple entry points for illicit substances. Port Newark and the Elizabeth Port Authority Marine Terminal, among North America’s largest containerized port complexes, often see drugs concealed within legitimate shipments. (nj.gov)
- Airports: New Jersey’s two international airports, Newark International and Atlantic City International, further enhance its role in drug transportation. Newark International, being one of the busiest airports globally, presents both challenges and opportunities for law enforcement agencies trying to intercept drug shipments. (nj.gov)
- Highways and Road Networks: The state’s extensive road network, including major highways like the New Jersey Turnpike and Interstate 95, facilitates the swift movement of drugs from entry points to distribution centers and then to consumers. (nj.gov)
- Diverse Population Centers: Cities like Newark, Jersey City, and Camden, with their large, ethnically diverse populations, often become focal points for drug distribution. These urban centers, with their dense populations, provide a ready market for drug traffickers. (nj.gov)
While New Jersey’s strategic advantages have contributed to its economic growth and connectivity, they have also inadvertently made it a hotspot for drug trafficking. Recognizing this dual-edged sword is crucial for policymakers and law enforcement agencies as they strategize to combat the drug menace effectively.
Alcohol Abuse in New Jersey
While much attention is given to illicit drugs, alcohol remains a significant concern in New Jersey. Its legal status and social acceptance often mask the profound impact it has on individuals, families, and communities:
- Prevalence: In 2021, alcohol accounted for a significant portion of treatment admissions in New Jersey, with 31,469 individuals seeking help. This figure underscores the pervasive nature of alcohol misuse in the state.
- Health Implications: Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to a host of health issues, including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and cognitive impairments. Additionally, alcohol plays a role in many accidents, from traffic collisions to workplace injuries.
- Social and Economic Impact: Beyond the individual, alcohol abuse affects families and communities. Domestic violence, child neglect, and financial hardships are often linked to excessive alcohol consumption. The economic toll, from lost productivity to healthcare costs, further emphasizes the need for intervention.
- Youth and Alcohol: Underage drinking remains a concern in New Jersey. Early exposure to alcohol can lead to addiction in later life and has been associated with poor academic performance, risky behaviors, and mental health challenges.
- State Initiatives: Recognizing the challenges posed by alcohol abuse, New Jersey has implemented various initiatives to curb its impact. From awareness campaigns targeting youth to stricter regulations on sales and consumption, the state is actively working to reduce the harm caused by excessive alcohol use.
Alcohol’s ubiquity in social and cultural settings makes addressing its misuse a complex challenge. However, with concerted efforts from policymakers, healthcare professionals, and communities, New Jersey can pave the way for a healthier relationship with this widely consumed substance.
New Jersey at a Glance: Quick Facts
New Jersey, often referred to as the “Garden State,” boasts a rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and industries. But to truly understand the backdrop against which the drug and alcohol abuse narrative unfolds, it’s essential to familiarize oneself with some key demographic and geographical details:
- Population: With a population of 8.4 million residents, New Jersey stands as the ninth most populous state in the U.S., making its substance abuse challenges even more pressing given the sheer number of lives potentially affected.
- Economic Indicators: The state’s median income in 1999 was $49,930, with an unemployment rate of 4.6%. These economic factors play a role in the broader picture of substance abuse, as financial stresses can sometimes contribute to addiction.
- Geography: Spanning 7,419 square miles, New Jersey might be compact, but its strategic location has made it a hub for various activities, including drug trafficking. The state boasts a 130-mile coastline, with two major seaports: New York/New Jersey and Philadelphia/Camden. These ports, especially Port Newark and the Elizabeth Port Authority Marine Terminal, rank among North America’s largest containerized port complexes.
- Transportation: New Jersey’s two international airports, Newark International and Atlantic City International, further enhance its role as a significant transit point. Newark International, in particular, stands out as the ninth busiest airport in the U.S. and the fifteenth busiest globally. According to the National Drug Intelligence Center, New Jersey is the most densely populated state in the nation and is strategically located as a drug transshipment point and distribution center.
- Principal Cities: Cities like Newark, Jersey City, Camden, Elizabeth, and Paterson are not just economic and cultural hubs but also focal points in the state’s battle against drug and alcohol abuse.
- Industries: New Jersey’s principal industries range from agriculture and petrochemicals to manufacturing and research & development. The diversity of its industries means a varied workforce, each facing its unique challenges related to substance abuse.
Understanding these foundational details about New Jersey sets the stage for a deeper exploration into the state’s drug and alcohol addiction landscape. As we delve further, it becomes evident that the state’s unique characteristics play a significant role in shaping its substance abuse narrative.
Efforts to Combat Drug and Alcohol Abuse in New Jersey
Facing the multifaceted challenges of drug and alcohol abuse, New Jersey has taken proactive steps to address the crisis. From state-led initiatives to community-driven programs, the efforts are comprehensive and multifaceted:
- Statewide Initiatives: The New Jersey Department of Health has been at the forefront of the battle against substance abuse. Through various programs, they aim to reduce drug and alcohol-related harm, promote recovery, and prevent relapse.
- Treatment Centers: Facilities like Valley Spring play a pivotal role in the recovery journey of many New Jersey residents. Offering specialized care, these centers provide a safe environment for individuals to overcome their addictions and rebuild their lives.
- Awareness Campaigns: Recognizing the power of information, the state has launched numerous awareness campaigns targeting specific demographics, such as youth and high-risk communities. These campaigns aim to educate individuals about the dangers of substance abuse and the resources available for help.
- Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Tackling the drug crisis requires a multi-pronged approach. Law enforcement agencies collaborate with health departments and community organizations to disrupt drug trafficking networks, provide support to affected communities, and ensure the safety of residents.
- Community Engagement: Grassroots movements and community-driven initiatives have emerged as powerful tools in the fight against drug and alcohol abuse. By engaging local residents, these efforts ensure that interventions are tailored to the unique needs of each community.
- Legislative Measures: New Jersey’s lawmakers have also played a role by enacting legislation aimed at curbing substance abuse. From stricter regulations on prescription opioids to funding for treatment programs, legislative measures provide a framework for a coordinated response.
The fight against drug and alcohol abuse in New Jersey is a collective effort, with each initiative playing a crucial role in shaping a brighter, healthier future for the state’s residents.
Bergen County
- Increasing Fatalities Due To Fentanyl: Drug-related fatalities involving fentanyl increased from 34% to approximately 80% between 2016 and 2020. (Bergen County Overdose Review Team)
- Decrease in pure heroin: During the same time period, the suspected heroin samples
containing only heroin decreased from 90% to 7%. (Bergen County Overdose Review Team) - Heroin containing fentanyl: From 2016 to 2020, the number of suspected heroin samples
submitted for lab testing that contained fentanyl increased from 8% to 91%. (Bergen County Overdose Review Team) - More than 50% of both treatment admissions and law enforcement suspected overdose incidents involved individuals between the ages of 25 and 44. (Bergen County Overdose Review Team)
- Sports-Related Injuries: In 2 of the 7 cases, reviewed by the OFRT were of individuals suffered a youth sports-related injury and were prescribed opioids. (Bergen County Overdose Review Team)
- Age Group: More than 50% of both treatment admissions and law enforcement suspected overdose incidents involved individuals between the ages of 25 and 44. (Bergen County Overdose Review Team)
- Benzodiazepines Are A High Contributor To Overdose: Benzodiazepines were listed as contributing to the cause of death in nearly a quarter (24%) of Bergen County drug-related deaths. (Bergen County Overdose Review Team)
Year | Overdoses | LE Narcan Deployments | LE Narcan Saves | Drug Related Fatalities |
---|---|---|---|---|
2022* | 690 | 376 | 257 | 125 |
2021* | 730 | 368 | 255 | 176 |
2020* | 664 | 325 | 233 | 147 |
2019 | 657 | 388 | 274 | 138 |
2018 | 583 | 352 | 255 | 142 |
2017 | 504 | 325 | 245 | 129 |
2016 | 320 | 208 | 180 | 99 |
2015 | 288 | 187 | 170 | 87 |
Multiple governing bodies have recommended an increase in addiction treatment in Bergen County NJ.
“We must sound the alarms. You have to assume that any drug bought on the street – whether powder or pill – contains fentanyl and can kill you.”
Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella
“The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office is committed to combating the deadly effects of fentanyl through targeting suppliers and traffickers of narcotics. Although fentanyl has plagued our state for several years, it is now being seen in both recreational and black market medications and pills.”
BCPO Chief Jason Love
What factors contribute to the high rates of drug addiction in New Jersey?
The high rates of drug addiction in New Jersey are influenced by a variety of factors, including socioeconomic issues, the availability of drugs through major transportation hubs, and a growing opioid epidemic that mirrors national trends.
How has New Jersey’s overdose rate changed in recent years?
In recent years, New Jersey has seen a fluctuation in overdose rates, largely due to the opioid crisis. Efforts to combat this issue, including the availability of naloxone and addiction treatment programs, have impacted these statistics.
What are New Jersey’s drug policies and how do they address addiction?
New Jersey’s drug policies focus on a combination of law enforcement and harm reduction strategies. These include measures like drug courts, which offer treatment options for offenders, and policies aimed at reducing the availability of prescription opioids.
How do harm reduction strategies in New Jersey combat drug addiction?
Harm reduction strategies in New Jersey, such as needle exchange programs and the distribution of naloxone to reverse opioid overdoses, aim to minimize the health and societal impacts of drug use by providing safer alternatives and access to treatment.
What is the legal status of marijuana in New Jersey?
Marijuana was legalized for adult recreational use in New Jersey following a 2020 referendum. The state has established regulations for the sale and possession of marijuana, reflecting a significant shift in drug policy.
How accessible are AA meetings for residents struggling with addiction in New Jersey?
AA meetings are widely accessible throughout New Jersey, offering numerous options for individuals seeking support for alcohol addiction. These meetings provide a community-based approach to recovery across various locations in the state.
What impact have New Jersey’s drug policies had on addiction statistics?
The impact of New Jersey’s drug policies on addiction statistics is multifaceted, showing promising results in areas like overdose prevention. However, the state continues to adapt its strategies to address the evolving nature of drug abuse and addiction.
Can residents of New Jersey access treatment for addiction without insurance?
Yes, New Jersey provides options for residents to access addiction treatment without insurance, including state-funded programs in New Jersey and facilities that offer services based on a sliding scale or for free to those who qualify.
What role do community-based programs play in New Jersey’s fight against addiction?
Community-based programs in New Jersey play a crucial role in the fight against addiction by offering localized support, education, and treatment options. These programs are vital in creating a supportive network for individuals and families affected by addiction.
How does New Jersey’s approach to drug addiction compare to other states?
New Jersey’s approach to drug addiction, which balances stringent drug policies with progressive harm reduction and treatment strategies, is seen as a model by some and criticized by others. Comparatively, the state is proactive in implementing policies aimed at reducing the harm and prevalence of drug addiction.
Empower Your Journey: Choose Valley Spring Recovery
In the face of addiction, taking the first step toward recovery can be the most challenging yet transformative decision one can make. Help is available at Valley Spring Recovery Center, a New Jersey Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Center. Valley Spring understands the intricacies of substance abuse and the profound impact it has on individuals and their loved ones and offers intensive outpatient treatment as well as partial care and aftercare. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
If you or a loved one is grappling with addiction, remember that help is just a call away. Choose Valley Spring Recovery and embark on a journey towards healing, hope, and a brighter future. Your path to recovery starts here.
Sources
New Jersey Department of Health’s Opioid Hospital Visits Page: New Jersey Department of Health. (n.d.). Opioid hospital visits. Retrieved from https://www.nj.gov/health/populationhealth/opioid/opioid_hospital.shtml
Behavioral Health Barometer: New Jersey, Volume 6 (PDF): Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2020). Behavioral Health Barometer: New Jersey, Volume 6: Indicators as measured through the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health and the National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services. HHS Publication No. SMA–20–Baro–19–NJ. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt32847/NewJersey-BH-Barometer_Volume6.pdf
U.S. Department of Justice, National Drug Intelligence Center. (2001). New Jersey Drug Threat Assessment. Retrieved from https://www.justice.gov/archive/ndic/pubs0/669/overview.html
Crime Grade https://crimegrade.org/drug-crimes-jersey-city-nj/
Bergen County Prosecutors Office https://www.bcpo.net/opioid-response/
Bergen County Overdose Review Team https://www.bcpo.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/2020-OFRT-Annual-Report.pdf
New Jersey Substance Abuse Monitoring System(NJSAMS) https://njsams.rutgers.edu/njsams/
Office of the Chief State Medical Examiner: https://ocsme.nj.gov/Dashboard
Dr. Michael Olla
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