This week’s edition of Prevention Pulse highlights troubling trends in youth health, the mental toll of social media on teens, and renewed scrutiny over how public funds are used for opioid prevention. We also share an upcoming CEU opportunity for professionals and fresh blog content focused on parenting, school safety, and managing college stress.
Addiction News & Policy Updates: Week of July 11
This week’s headlines focus on children’s health trends, rising teen anxiety, and renewed calls for accountability in how public funds and information are handled in the health sector.
Study Shows American Kids Are Becoming Less Healthy
A comprehensive JAMA study has revealed a troubling long-term decline in the overall health of American children. Drawing from eight national datasets spanning nearly two decades, researchers noted rising rates of obesity, mental illness, and chronic conditions among U.S. youth. The study also highlights increasing child mortality rates in comparison to other wealthy nations and links the decline to firearm injuries, preterm birth, and car crashes. Experts warn that current policies may worsen the crisis if left unaddressed.
Social Media Blamed for Surge in Teen Anxiety
New Jersey educators and mental health professionals are seeing a spike in teen anxiety and depression tied to social media use. In a recent MyCentralJersey article, platforms focused on image-sharing and peer feedback are fueling comparison, online bullying, and disrupted sleep among adolescents. In response, some schools have implemented phone restrictions and expanded mental health resources, while local campaigns are helping parents understand how to guide teens toward healthier online habits.
Watchdog Flags Misuse of Opioid Settlement Funds in Irvington
Irvington, NJ is facing backlash after a state comptroller report accused the township of misusing more than $600,000 in opioid settlement funds. The money was allegedly spent on concerts featuring popcorn machines, VIP trailers, and entertainment fees instead of being used for addiction treatment or prevention services. Township officials dispute the claims and have filed a lawsuit, but the state Supreme Court allowed the report’s release. The comptroller is now calling for tighter controls on how settlement funds are allocated.
Judge Reverses Removal of Federal Health Information
A federal court has ruled that the Trump administration violated procedural law when it ordered the deletion of federal health websites and datasets earlier this year. As reported by Fierce Healthcare, the judge found the order was “arbitrary and capricious” and ordered agencies including the Department of Health and Human Services to restore the removed content. The ruling upholds the importance of transparent access to public health information and sets limits on how future administrations can alter or erase such data.
Upcoming CEU Training for Prevention Professionals
Wellspring’s summer training series continues with a virtual course designed to help Certified Prevention Specialists better support families and communities affected by substance use.
Impact of SUDs on Families and Larger Systems
On July 17–18, join us for P202: Impact of SUD’s on Families & Larger Systems. This two-day morning session runs from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. each day and focuses on how substance use disorders affect family roles, communication, and broader social systems. Participants will gain insight into family dynamics and leave with practical strategies for prevention and support in both clinical and community settings.
Explore more training opportunities on our events calendar.
Wellspring Blog Highlights
This week’s blog features explore the growing stress around college admissions, the pivotal role of parents in prevention education, and New Jersey’s ongoing debate over phone use in schools.
Managing the Pressure of College Admissions
In The Stress of Applying to College, we examine why today’s teens are feeling more pressure than ever when navigating the college application process. From rising competition to uncertainty about the future, the post offers simple, effective strategies to help families manage stress and build resilience.
Parents as Prevention Leaders
What Is the Role of Parents in Prevention Education? highlights how parents can create a strong foundation for prevention through communication, boundary-setting, and consistent support. This article is a must-read for caregivers seeking to play an active role in protecting their children from substance misuse.
New Jersey’s School Phone Ban Debate
In Phones in Schools: New Jersey’s Debate on Safety, Mental Health, and Learning, we look at how educators, parents, and lawmakers are responding to proposals to ban cell phones in schools. The article explores the potential benefits for learning and mental health, as well as concerns about access and safety.