This week’s Prevention Pulse newsletter covers new policy efforts to prevent teen gambling, research on screen addiction and suicide risk, and notable updates in overdose prevention and enforcement.
Addiction News & Policy Updates: Week of June 23
New Jersey Aims to Tackle Teen Gambling Addiction
New Jersey lawmakers have introduced a bill requiring high schools to teach students about compulsive gambling. The lessons will be built into existing health and physical education classes to help students understand the risks early and reduce the chances of addiction later.
JAMA Links Screen Addiction to Teen Suicide Risk
A study published in JAMA has found that compulsive screen use, especially social media, mobile devices, and gaming, is linked to increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in adolescents aged 9 to 14. Researchers emphasized that it’s not just screen time, but the uncontrollable use of screens, that signals deeper mental health issues.
Record Cocaine Bust in NJ Dismantles Puerto Rico Pipeline
Authorities have broken up a massive drug trafficking ring funneling cocaine from Puerto Rico to New Jersey. According to Patch, the bust represents the largest cocaine seizure in the state’s history and is being hailed as a major step in disrupting organized drug networks.
New Veterinary Sedative Found in Illicit Drug Supply
Health officials are warning about medetomidine, a veterinary sedative increasingly being found in the illicit drug supply. First reported in cities like Chicago and Philadelphia, it poses additional risks in overdose cases because it doesn’t respond to naloxone and can cause severe withdrawal symptoms.
Take-Home Methadone Policy Did Not Raise Overdose Rates
Expanded access to take-home methadone doses during COVID-19 did not result in higher overdose deaths, according to a new analysis from the University of Pennsylvania’s Leonard Davis Institute. The study supports maintaining these flexible dosing policies to improve treatment access and patient autonomy.
Upcoming CEU Trainings for Prevention Professionals
Wellspring continues its summer training series with two virtual sessions tailored for CADCs, LCADCs, and CPS professionals working in addiction prevention, family systems, and early intervention.
Dynamics and Process of ATOD Dependency & Abuse
On July 10–11, join us for P201: Dynamics and Process of ATOD Dependency & Abuse. This two-day morning session (9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) examines the spectrum of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug (ATOD) dependency. Participants will explore psychological defense mechanisms and how these insights support more effective prevention strategies.
Impact of SUDs on Families & Larger Systems
On July 17–18, P202: Impact of SUDs on Families & Larger Systems explores how substance use affects family dynamics and broader community structures. This virtual course (9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. both days) provides practical approaches for professionals supporting individuals and families affected by addiction.
Explore more training opportunities on our events calendar.
Prevention Blog Highlights
This week’s blog entries focus on real-life challenges and prevention strategies for families, seniors, and communities across New Jersey.
A Teen’s Journey Through Anorexia
In A High School Senior’s Battle With Anorexia: ‘I Just Wanted the Noise in My Head to Stop’, a New Jersey student shares her deeply personal story of battling an eating disorder. The post highlights early warning signs, emotional struggles, and hopeful recovery strategies for teens and their families.
Protecting Seniors from Scams
Elder Fraud Prevention in 2025: How Seniors Can Stay Safe from Scams offers practical tips to help older adults identify, avoid, and report scams in today’s evolving digital landscape. A must-read for caregivers and advocates supporting senior safety.
Talking to Kids About Marijuana
With cannabis laws continuing to evolve, How to Talk to Your Kids About Marijuana in 2025 provides five essential tips for parents in New Jersey. Learn how to initiate honest, age-appropriate conversations and set expectations grounded in the latest policy updates.