Our contemporary culture of living moves swiftly, leaving many people behind. For some young individuals, this rapid pace leads to turning to alcohol as a way to unwind and cope. That is just one reason why now, more than ever, Garden State youngsters grappling with alcohol addiction require a dependable support system. So, where can they turn to? From counseling services to community groups, various options are available to provide guidance and empathy. This text explores these supportive lifelines to sail through the challenging waters of alcoholism and reach the shore in one piece. Join us as we uncover the support systems for young New Jerseyans battling alcohol addiction.
Alcohol consumption among young people in New Jersey
Numerous studies, including a 2019 New Jersey Student Health Survey, show that alcohol consumption among young people in the state remains a pressing concern that needs to be tackled immediately.
First, did you know that alcohol surpasses both tobacco and illicit drugs in popularity among youths nationwide? While New Jersey may not be at the forefront of the abovementioned trend, the facts obtained by the survey are still quite alarming: 30.3% of high school students in New Jersey currently drink alcohol. Shockingly, 12.8% had their first drink before the age of 13. Also, binge drinking (which stands out as particularly risky for young people, largely due to its pervasive and almost celebratory portrayal in popular culture) was reported by 15.3% of students, with its “popularity” increasing with each grade level.
Support systems for young New Jerseyans battling alcohol addiction
The abovementioned findings emphasize the urgent need for effective interventions and support systems to address alcohol addiction among New Jersey’s youth. Here’s where Garden State youngsters battling substance abuse can reach out for help.
NIAAA for Middle School
As prevention is always better than the cure, kids are never too young to learn about alcoholism and its destructive capacities. On the NIAAA website, you can explore interactive activities tailored for middle schoolers aged 11 to 13. They’re designed to expand discussions surrounding peer pressure, building resistance skills, and addressing other essential subjects linked to underage drinking.
Developed by the University of Michigan for grades 6–8, these engaging resources are part of the Alcohol Misuse Prevention Study (AMPS), supported by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). AMPS aims to provide accurate insights into alcohol use among peers, helping to alleviate some of the pressure to drink. That is done through informative overviews, handouts, and role-playing exercises. Using these resources, parents and educators can equip young New Jerseyans with the skills and knowledge to make informed choices regarding alcohol.
SAMHSA’s national helpline
SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service), is a confidential and free resource available 24/7 every day of the year. It offers information and support in both English and Spanish for individuals and families facing mental health or substance use disorders (or both). This service connects people with local treatment facilities, support groups, and community organizations. If you’re unsure where to turn for help, you can also text your New Jersey zip code to 435748 (HELP4U) to find assistance nearby. It doesn’t matter if you have insurance or not; SAMHSA can help guide you to the resources you need.
Inpatient treatment facilities in New Jersey
In New Jersey, many facilities offer inpatient treatment programs. These programs represent a structured path to recovery within a supportive environment. Usually, the first step toward full recovery is a supervised alcohol detox process that provides essential medical and emotional support during withdrawal. Note that without professional supervision, withdrawal symptoms can escalate dramatically, even leading to fatal outcomes.
Also, these programs combine medical care with personalized therapy; they have a higher success rate than outpatient options (which we’ll discuss below). By immersing individuals in a residential setting, they gain access to 24/7 support and a community of peers who understand their struggles. All in all, New Jersey’s inpatient programs offer hope and effective treatment for those battling addiction.
Virtual (outpatient) therapy solutions for young New Jerseyans
Whether you’re residing in New Jersey or New Mexico – it doesn’t matter, as virtual therapy programs for alcohol addiction offer convenience and flexibility. They provide benefits like ease of access and adaptability to different schedules. However, inpatient treatment remains the best solution for severe cases. Virtual therapy may be a temporary remedy or supplement in New Jersey, where many excellent inpatient facilities are available.
How to help a young person battling alcohol addiction
Now that we’ve listed support systems available to young New Jerseyans battling alcohol addiction, it’s time to take a look at what you can do to help out a young person in need.
Spend quality time with them
One way to support young people with alcohol issues is to join them in activities they enjoy. Whether sports, hobbies, or new interests, shared experiences strengthen bonds and provide positive outlets. Active involvement demonstrates a strong commitment to their well-being; it nurtures trust and communication. Also, shared activities offer healthy distractions from alcohol triggers.
Listen to them
Lending an ear when they want to discuss their experiences or emotions is crucial. Your main objective as a friend, parent, or relative is to provide a safe space for honest communication. You don’t have to be a communications expert for this; you just have to be empathetic. By actively listening without judgment, you can validate their feelings and demonstrate your commitment to understanding and assisting them on their path to recovery.
Talk about how their relationship with alcohol is affecting their other relationships
Lastly, you can discuss their mental health alongside the ripple effects of their actions on relationships, family dynamics, and personal well-being. That can provide some valuable insight and motivation for change. Addressing these consequences openly and empathetically encourages self-reflection and accountability while offering support and guidance.
Conclusion
Young New Jerseyans battling alcohol addiction have access to a range of (local and nationwide) support systems that were made to help them recover and achieve mental well-being. Also, there is something that we all can do if our loved ones are affected by this issue. Namely, we can actively participate in shared activities, engage in open conversations about the impact of addiction, and provide a supportive space for expression. Recognizing the potential dangers of unsupervised struggles with alcoholism underscores the importance of seeking professional guidance and support. Together, these support systems offer bridges to understanding, growth, and, ultimately, a brighter future for those affected by alcohol addiction.
References:
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/niaaa-middle-school
By Chris Bates
