Teenagers on Social Media: Benefits, Harms, and How to Positively Use It

Teenagers on Social Media: Benefits, Harms, and How to Positively Use It

By Blake Birenkrant It’s no secret that social media has become a very important part of many people’s lives. Today, there are so many different technological devices to use, such as cell phones, laptops, tablets, watches, and more. Access to different social media platforms is right at our fingertips. Social media has many benefits in today’s…

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Pathways Summer Academy: A Season of Learning, Connection, and Fun

Pathways Summer Academy: A Season of Learning, Connection, and Fun

This summer, the Pathways Summer Academy welcomed students from Carteret High School for a program designed to inspire, educate, and connect. Over several weeks, participants engaged in a blend of college and career exploration, creative expression, skill-building activities, and community experiences, all within a supportive and inclusive environment. Running from July 8 through July 31,…

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Vaping and Youth: Unpacking the Hype and Hazards, Part 2

Vaping and Youth: Unpacking the Hype and Hazards, Part 2

By: Ethan Lin In Part 1 of this series, we explored the rise of vaping among teens, debunking myths about its safety and highlighting the addictive nature and health risks associated with e-cigarettes. In Part 2, we delve deeper into how vaping companies strategically target young people through appealing flavors, unique designs, and social media…

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Inside New Jersey’s LGBTQ Law Enforcement Liaison Program

Inside New Jersey’s LGBTQ Law Enforcement Liaison Program

By Lizz Dinnigan In an effort to expand and improve our presence, reach and efficacy among LGBTQIA+ youth, Wellspring Center for Prevention will be partnering with the New Jersey LGBTQ Law Enforcement Liaison effort for our LGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee. The committee’s formation was a result of Wellspring being the sub-recipient of a grant from Prevention…

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Overdose Prevention at Risk as Delays, Cuts Stall Progress | Prevention News July 25, 2025

Overdose Prevention at Risk as Delays, Cuts Stall Progress | Prevention News July 25, 2025

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…

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Opioid Settlement, Antidepressant Recall, and Treatment Challenges in the Fentanyl Era | Prevention News July 18, 2025

Opioid Settlement, Antidepressant Recall, and Treatment Challenges in the Fentanyl Era | Prevention News July 18, 2025

From new data on treatment challenges in the fentanyl era to a major opioid settlement involving eight manufacturers, this week’s Prevention Pulse covers critical updates in substance use prevention, mental health, and medication safety. Read on for the top headlines, upcoming trainings, and blog insights shaping the conversation in New Jersey and beyond. Addiction News…

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Vaping and Youth: Unpacking the Hype and Hazards, Part 1

Vaping and Youth: Unpacking the Hype and Hazards, Part 1

By: Ethan Lin Vapes, also known as “E-Cigs,” have been growing in popularity during the past few years, catching the attention of many teens. Marketing campaigns often reach middle and high school students as they can be especially susceptible to trying addictive substances, such as alcohol and vaping. There are various types of vapes that…

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Youth Health Trends, Social Media Anxiety, and NJ Prevention Updates | Prevention News July 11, 2025

Youth Health Trends, Social Media Anxiety, and NJ Prevention Updates | Prevention News July 11, 2025

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…

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How to Prevent Bullying in Schools

How to Prevent Bullying in Schools

For parents, sending a child to school comes with a unique set of worries: Will my child make friends? Are they struggling academically? Are they being challenged? Are they being bullied? There is no doubt about the drastic differences in curriculum and school environment across the decades, but one thing always remains (and evolves): bullying….

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NJ Opioid Fund Controversy, Xylazine Surge, and July CPS Trainings | Prevention News July 5, 2025

NJ Opioid Fund Controversy, Xylazine Surge, and July CPS Trainings | Prevention News July 5, 2025

This week’s edition of Prevention Pulse brings attention to funding decisions, overlooked prevention strategies, and the escalating impact of xylazine in nearby Pennsylvania. From statewide controversies to grassroots action, we’re covering the latest developments shaping addiction prevention and behavioral health. You’ll also find details on upcoming CEU trainings for CPS professionals and new Wellspring blog…

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Emerging Risks, Policy Changes, and Prevention Insights | Prevention News June 27, 2025

Emerging Risks, Policy Changes, and Prevention Insights | Prevention News June 27, 2025

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…

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