From delayed opioid settlement spending in New York to rising concerns about xylazine-related overdoses, this week’s Prevention Pulse covers the latest developments in addiction policy, mental health, and community safety. Plus, find details on our upcoming CEU training and helpful blog insights for parents, caregivers, and prevention professionals.
Addiction News & Policy Updates: Week of July 25
N.Y. Advocates Call Out Delay in Opioid Settlement Spending
Despite receiving over $500 million in opioid settlement funds since 2022, New York has yet to spend more than $200 million of it, according to policy experts and advocates. Critics argue the delay is stalling critical prevention and treatment programs, even as the state sees progress in reducing overdose deaths. (Source: Spectrum Local News)
Federal Budget Cuts Threaten U.S. Overdose Prevention Progress
A new Brookings report warns that recent reductions in federal funding and internal system challenges are jeopardizing national gains in overdose prevention. The report calls for a renewed strategy focused on harm reduction, expanded treatment access, and improved data monitoring. (Source: Brookings)
‘Tranq’ Dangers Rise as Former User Speaks Out
A Tennessee woman is sharing her experience with xylazine, also known as “tranq,” a dangerous sedative increasingly found in the illicit drug supply. She describes life-threatening complications and long-term damage. Health officials warn that the mix of tranq and opioids is fueling an alarming trend of overdoses and severe wounds. (Source: WBIR)
Law Enforcement Officials Among 7 Arrested in NJ Drug Bust
A retired West New York detective, a Hudson County corrections officer, and a police dispatcher are among seven individuals charged in a cocaine trafficking ring that was dismantled this month. Authorities seized over four kilograms of suspected cocaine, multiple vehicles, firearms, and more than $70,000 in cash. (Source: CBS New York, News 12 New York)
Upcoming CEU Training for Prevention Professionals
Wellspring wraps up its July CEU training series with a timely session for CADCs, LCADCs, and CPS professionals exploring the intersections of addiction and violence.
CPS Course: Prevention of Violent and Compulsive Behaviors
Join us July 31–August 1 for P204: Prevention of Violent and Compulsive Behaviors, a two-day morning course from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This training examines the relationship between substance misuse and violent or compulsive behaviors, while helping professionals understand both perpetrator and victim dynamics. Participants will leave with tools to design effective prevention strategies for diverse communities.
Explore more training opportunities on our events calendar.
Prevention Blog Highlights
This week’s featured blog posts offer practical tools for families navigating real-life challenges, from parenting approaches to teen gambling and senior mental health.
What’s Your Parenting Style?
In The Pros and Cons of Different Parenting Styles, we explore how parenting choices can shape a child’s behavior and emotional health. Learn the benefits and drawbacks of the most common approaches to help guide your own family dynamic.
Raising Awareness About Teen Gambling
Teen Gambling: Warning Signs, Dangers, and How to Prevent It offers a breakdown of how gambling impacts youth mental health, along with tips to help parents and educators intervene early.
Helping Seniors Cope With Mental Health Challenges
In The Role of Family Members in Supporting Seniors With Mental Health Issues, we share strategies for assisting aging loved ones through emotional struggles and substance misuse, including how to offer empathy and connect them to appropriate care.