Understanding the Addiction Epidemic in New Jersey and New England

The addiction epidemic remains one of the most pressing public health crises in the United States, with New Jersey and New England being particularly hard-hit regions. Opioid addiction continues to drive overdose rates, accounting for a significant proportion of substance-related deaths. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 115 people in the U.S. die each day from opioid overdoses.

However, the crisis extends beyond opioids, with substances like alcohol, heroin, synthetics, and methamphetamine also contributing to the addiction landscape. In both New Jersey and Massachusetts, addiction affects individuals across all demographics. The complexity of addiction calls for comprehensive and personalized treatment approaches.

At Serenity at Summit, we understand that addiction is not a one-size-fits-all disease. Our New Jersey and New England locations provide tailored care to meet each individual’s unique needs, with a focus on holistic healing and evidence-based therapies.

Addiction in New Jersey and New England

New Jersey’s Opioid Crisis

New Jersey has been severely impacted by the opioid crisis, with an alarming increase in opioid-related overdose deaths over the past decade. In 2022, New Jersey recorded over 3,000 opioid-related deaths, a significant increase from previous years. The state has also become a major transshipment point for drugs like heroin and fentanyl, exacerbating the problem.

According to the DEA, much of the heroin in New Jersey is mixed with fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, leading to higher fatal overdose rates.

Massachusetts’ Battle with Opioids

In Massachusetts, the opioid crisis continues to wreak havoc. With synthetic opioids like fentanyl driving overdose deaths, the state has one of the highest opioid mortality rates in the country. In 2022, Massachusetts recorded over 2,300 opioid-related overdose deaths, marking a steep rise over the past several years. Cities like Boston and Haverhill have seen an increase in addiction-related hospitalizations, often stemming from heroin and prescription opioid misuse.

What is Drug Addiction?

Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite harmful consequences.

It affects the brain’s reward system, causing changes in behavior, judgment, and self-control. New Jersey and Massachusetts have seen a rise in addiction cases due to the easy availability of both prescription opioids and illicit drugs like heroin and fentanyl.

Serenity at Summit takes a comprehensive approach to treating addiction, recognizing that each individual’s path to recovery is different.

Our locations in Union, NJ, and Haverhill, MA, offer treatment programs designed to address the full spectrum of substance use disorders, from alcohol to opioids and more.

The Signs of Addiction

Addiction develops in stages, beginning with substance misuse and progressing to tolerance, dependence, and, eventually, addiction. Identifying the early signs of addiction can help prevent the problem from escalating.

Tolerance and Dependence

Tolerance occurs when your body requires larger doses of a drug to achieve the same effects. Over time, this can lead to dependence, where the body becomes reliant on the substance to function normally. This stage is often the precursor to addiction, especially in the case of opioids or benzodiazepines.

Signs of Addiction

  • Increased isolation and withdrawal from family or friends
  • Loss of interest in hobbies and activities
  • Using drugs in secret or at odd times
  • Inability to stop using despite negative consequences
  • Physical signs like weight loss, fatigue, or symptoms of withdrawal

If you notice these signs in yourself or a loved one, seeking help is critical. Serenity at Summit offers compassionate, comprehensive treatment options designed to meet the specific needs of individuals facing addiction.

What Serenity at Summit Offers: Comprehensive Treatment for Addiction

Serenity at Summit offers a full continuum of care, from medically supervised detox to long-term residential treatment, outpatient programs, and aftercare services. Our treatment centers in Union, New Jersey, and Haverhill, Massachusetts, provide a supportive and structured environment to promote healing and long-lasting recovery.

Medical Detox Services

Our medical detox programs are available at both the New Jersey and New England locations, where clients can safely withdraw from addictive substances under 24/7 medical supervision. Detox is often the first step in recovery and is critical in managing withdrawal symptoms.

  • 24/7 Medical Supervision to ensure comfort and safety
  • Customized Detox Plans based on each individual’s medical history and substance use
  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for opioids and alcohol addiction to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings

Inpatient and Residential Treatment

Following detox, clients can transition into inpatient care or residential treatment, where they receive 24/7 support in a structured setting.

Serenity at Summit provides clinical stabilization services and acute treatment.

  • Inpatient Treatment Programs: Focused on comprehensive recovery, including individual therapy, group therapy, and family support.
  • Holistic Therapies: Clients have access to yoga, meditation, nutritional counseling, and trauma-informed care.

Outpatient Treatment Programs

For individuals who need continued treatment but cannot commit to inpatient care, Serenity at Summit offers Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP). These programs allow clients to maintain their daily responsibilities while receiving structured therapeutic care.

  • Flexible Scheduling to accommodate work or school
  • Group and Individual Therapy to foster personal growth and peer support
  • Family Involvement: Regular family therapy sessions to help strengthen support systems

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

We specialize in dual diagnosis treatment for clients struggling with both addiction and mental health disorders. This integrated approach ensures that both conditions are treated simultaneously for the best chance at long-term recovery.

Common co-occurring disorders treated include anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder.

Both New Jersey and New England face unique challenges when it comes to the addiction epidemic. The rise in synthetic opioids like fentanyl has caused a surge in overdose deaths, while alcohol and other drugs like cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine also pose significant threats.

Addiction Statistics:

  • In New Jersey, over 40% of all treatment admissions are related to heroin or opioid addiction.
  • Massachusetts has seen a 300% increase in fentanyl-related overdose deaths in the last five years.
  • Alcohol abuse accounts for 25% of all treatment admissions in New Jersey and Massachusetts combined.

How Addiction Treatment Works at Serenity at Summit

Serenity at Summit uses evidence-based practices and a personalized approach to addiction treatment. Our process begins with a comprehensive assessment to determine the appropriate level of care for each client, ranging from detox to outpatient services.

Continuum of Care

Our continuum of care ensures that clients move seamlessly through each stage of treatment and receive ongoing support as they progress.

  • Medical Detox: The first step to manage withdrawal
  • Inpatient Treatment: Focused therapy in a structured setting
  • Outpatient Programs: Continued care for those transitioning back into daily life
  • Aftercare: Alumni programs and community support to maintain long-term recovery

Taking the First Step Towards Recovery

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, Serenity at Summit is here to help. Our New Jersey and New England locations provide comprehensive treatment options, from detox to long-term recovery support. Our experienced professionals are committed to helping you find the path to lasting sobriety.

Contact us today to speak with a treatment specialist and learn more about how we can help you achieve recovery.

Your new life begins at Serenity at Summit.

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