Substance Use Treatment & Recovery in New Jersey

Heroin Abuse in New Jersey

Heroin continues to be one of the most severe drug threats in New Jersey, with the state consistently ranking high in heroin-related treatment admissions. The widespread availability of heroin, particularly in urban areas, has fueled the ongoing crisis. Heroin use often begins as a result of dependency on prescription opioids, which leads individuals to seek out a cheaper and more accessible alternative. The potency of heroin, especially when laced with substances like fentanyl, significantly increases the risk of overdose, making it a leading cause of drug-related deaths in the state.

The heroin epidemic in New Jersey has far-reaching consequences, affecting individuals, families, and communities. Treatment for heroin addiction often requires comprehensive care, beginning with medically supervised detox to manage severe withdrawal symptoms. Following detox, inpatient rehabilitation programs provide the intensive support needed to address the physical, psychological, and social aspects of heroin addiction. Given the complexity of heroin dependence, long-term treatment and aftercare are crucial for maintaining sobriety and preventing relapse.

Heroin Statistics in New Jersey

• Prevalence of Heroin Use: Heroin remains one of the most severe drug threats in New Jersey, accounting for approximately 40% of all substance abuse treatment admissions in 2022. The state’s urban areas, particularly in North Jersey, are hotspots for heroin distribution and use, exacerbating the ongoing crisis.
• Transition from Prescription Opioids: A significant number of heroin users in New Jersey initially became addicted to prescription opioids before transitioning to heroin, which is often cheaper and more accessible. The introduction of fentanyl into the heroin supply has made the drug even more lethal, leading to a surge in overdose deaths.
• Health Impacts: Heroin use leads to severe health problems, including respiratory depression, collapsed veins, and an increased risk of infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis C. Overdoses are common and often fatal, particularly when heroin is mixed with other substances like fentanyl.
• Law Enforcement and Seizures: Heroin is a primary focus for New Jersey law enforcement. The DEA has reported significant heroin seizures in the state, particularly in areas with high rates of addiction. These efforts are part of broader initiatives to curb the availability of heroin and reduce its impact on communities.
• Treatment Programs: New Jersey offers a range of treatment options for heroin addiction, including medically supervised detox, inpatient rehab, and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). Long-term treatment and aftercare are essential for preventing relapse and supporting sustained recovery.

Opioid Addiction in New Jersey

Opioid addiction has reached epidemic proportions in New Jersey, driven by the over-prescription of painkillers and the availability of illicit opioids like heroin and fentanyl. Prescription opioids, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, have been widely abused, leading to a surge in addiction rates and overdose deaths. The transition from prescription opioids to heroin and synthetic opioids is common as individuals seek out stronger or more accessible drugs to satisfy their dependence. In recent years, fentanyl—a synthetic opioid significantly more potent than heroin—has been linked to a sharp increase in fatal overdoses, exacerbating the crisis.

Combatting opioid addiction in New Jersey requires a multifaceted approach that includes prevention, treatment, and ongoing support. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has become a cornerstone in opioid addiction recovery, utilizing medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

MAT, combined with behavioral therapies, has proven effective in helping individuals achieve and maintain long-term recovery. Treatment programs must also focus on educating communities about the dangers of opioid misuse and ensuring that individuals have access to the necessary resources for recovery.

Opioid Statistics in New Jersey

• Prevalence of Opioid Use: Opioid addiction continues to escalate in New Jersey, with both prescription opioids and illicit opioids like heroin and fentanyl contributing to the crisis. In 2022, over 3,000 opioid-related deaths were reported in the state, marking one of the highest overdose rates in the nation.
• Prescription Opioids: The over-prescription of opioids, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, has been a significant driver of addiction in New Jersey. Despite efforts to regulate prescriptions, misuse of these medications remains a critical issue, often leading individuals to seek out illicit opioids like heroin.
• Fentanyl’s Impact: The introduction of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, has dramatically increased the lethality of opioid use in New Jersey. Fentanyl is frequently mixed with heroin or sold as counterfeit prescription pills, leading to a surge in overdose deaths.
• Law Enforcement and Seizures: New Jersey law enforcement agencies have been heavily involved in efforts to curb the opioid crisis, with significant seizures of fentanyl and other opioids. These efforts are part of broader strategies to reduce the availability of these dangerous substances and prevent overdose deaths.
• Treatment Approaches: Addressing opioid addiction in New Jersey requires comprehensive treatment options, including Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), which utilizes medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone to manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Behavioral therapies and long-term support are also critical components of effective opioid addiction treatment.

Cocaine Abuse in New Jersey

Cocaine abuse in New Jersey has seen a resurgence in recent years, becoming a significant public health concern once again. While heroin and opioids dominate headlines, cocaine remains a widely abused substance, particularly in urban and suburban areas. The increase in cocaine-related treatment admissions highlights the growing prevalence of this stimulant, which poses serious health risks, including heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory failure. Cocaine is often abused in combination with other substances, such as alcohol or opioids, which can lead to even more dangerous and potentially fatal interactions.

The nature of cocaine addiction requires targeted treatment strategies that address both the physical and psychological aspects of dependence. Behavioral therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI), are commonly used to help individuals recognize and change their drug-using behaviors. Due to the stimulant properties of cocaine, relapse prevention is a critical component of treatment, as cravings can be intense and long-lasting. Comprehensive treatment programs in New Jersey focus on providing the necessary support to help individuals overcome addiction and reduce the risk of relapse.

New Jersey Cocaine Statistics

• Prevalence of Cocaine Use: Cocaine abuse has seen a resurgence in New Jersey, particularly in urban areas. In 2022, cocaine accounted for nearly 10% of all substance abuse treatment admissions in the state, highlighting its growing presence as a public health concern.
• Polysubstance Use: Many cocaine users in New Jersey engage in polysubstance use, particularly mixing cocaine with alcohol or opioids. This combination significantly increases the risk of severe health consequences, including cardiovascular emergencies and fatal overdoses.
• Health Impacts: Cocaine use is associated with a wide range of severe health issues, including heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory failure. The stimulant properties of cocaine can lead to long-term psychological effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and aggressive behavior.
• Law Enforcement and Seizures: The New Jersey State Police and DEA have reported increased seizures of cocaine in the state, indicating higher availability and distribution. This increase in supply often correlates with rising rates of addiction and treatment admissions.
• Treatment Options: New Jersey offers comprehensive treatment programs for cocaine addiction, including detoxification, behavioral therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and relapse prevention strategies. These programs are crucial for helping individuals overcome addiction and avoid relapse.

Synthetic Drug Addiction in New Jersey

Synthetic drugs, often marketed as legal alternatives to more well-known illicit substances, have emerged as a significant threat in New Jersey. These substances, which include synthetic cannabinoids (known as K2 or Spice) and synthetic cathinones (commonly referred to as bath salts), are often sold in convenience stores, head shops, and online. Despite being labeled as “safe” or “natural,” synthetic drugs can have unpredictable and dangerous effects, leading to severe health complications, including hallucinations, paranoia, aggressive behavior, and even death. The widespread availability and legal gray area surrounding these substances have contributed to their growing use, particularly among younger populations.

Addressing the issue of synthetic drugs in New Jersey requires a combination of public education, regulation, and treatment. Many users of synthetic drugs do not initially seek treatment due to a lack of awareness about the dangers or the belief that these substances are harmless. However, as the risks become more widely known, treatment centers are increasingly dealing with cases of synthetic drug dependence. Treatment typically involves detoxification to manage withdrawal symptoms, followed by behavioral therapies to address the psychological impact of use. Comprehensive care is essential for helping individuals recover from the damaging effects of synthetic drugs and preventing future substance use.

Synthetic Drug Addiction in New Jersey

• Prevalence of Synthetic Drug Use: Synthetic drugs, including synthetic cannabinoids (K2/Spice) and synthetic cathinones (bath salts), are increasingly prevalent in New Jersey. These substances are often marketed as legal alternatives to marijuana or stimulants, but they carry significant health risks. Emergency room visits related to synthetic drug use have increased in recent years, reflecting their growing danger.
• Youth and Synthetic Drugs: Synthetic drugs are particularly popular among younger demographics in New Jersey, often due to their easy availability and low cost. However, the unpredictable and potent effects of these substances have led to severe health incidents, including psychosis, aggressive behavior, and even death.
• Health Impacts: The use of synthetic drugs can result in extreme health consequences, including hallucinations, heart palpitations, and violent behavior. Long-term use is linked to significant cognitive decline and severe mental health disorders.
• Law Enforcement and Seizures: Law enforcement in New Jersey has been increasingly focused on cracking down on the distribution of synthetic drugs. Seizures of these substances have risen, particularly in urban areas where they are often sold in convenience stores and head shops.
• Treatment Challenges: Treating synthetic drug addiction poses unique challenges due to the unpredictable nature of these substances. Detoxification is often the first step, followed by comprehensive behavioral therapy to address the psychological impact of synthetic drug use.

Methamphetamine Addiction in New Jersey

Methamphetamine use has been less prevalent in New Jersey compared to other states, particularly those in the Midwest and West. However, recent years have seen an uptick in meth-related treatment admissions and law enforcement seizures, indicating that meth is becoming a growing concern in the state.

Methamphetamine Treatment Admissions: According to the New Jersey Department of Human Services, methamphetamine accounted for a small but increasing percentage of substance abuse treatment admissions in the state. In 2021, methamphetamine was listed as the primary drug of abuse in about 2% of all treatment admissions, a noticeable rise from previous years where it accounted for less than 1%.

Methamphetamine Statistics in New Jersey

• Law Enforcement Seizures: Data from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) indicates that methamphetamine seizures in New Jersey have increased over the past few years. This increase suggests that meth is becoming more available and widely distributed within the state, contributing to higher rates of use and addiction.
• Hospital Visits: Emergency room visits related to methamphetamine use have also seen an increase in New Jersey, reflecting the dangerous and often life-threatening effects of the drug. These visits often involve severe physical health issues such as heart problems, stroke, and extreme agitation.
• Regional Impact: While meth use is spreading across New Jersey, it has been particularly noted in more rural areas, where access to treatment resources may be more limited, exacerbating the public health challenge.

Alcohol Abuse in New Jersey

Alcohol is the most commonly used addictive substance in New Jersey, and its abuse spans across all demographics, affecting individuals from all walks of life. According to recent data from the New Jersey Department of Health, alcohol use disorders (AUD) account for a substantial percentage of the state’s substance abuse treatment admissions.

• Treatment Admissions: In 2022, alcohol was the primary substance of abuse in approximately 20% of all treatment admissions in New Jersey. This figure represents thousands of individuals seeking help for alcohol dependency and underscores the widespread nature of the issue.
• Binge Drinking and Heavy Drinking: Binge drinking, defined as consuming five or more drinks on a single occasion for men, or four or more for women, is particularly prevalent in New Jersey. Heavy drinking, which refers to consuming more than 15 drinks per week for men and more than eight drinks per week for women, is also a significant concern. These patterns of drinking are associated with a higher risk of developing alcohol use disorders, as well as an increased likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors, such as driving under the influence.
• Demographic Trends: Alcohol abuse in New Jersey is prevalent across various age groups, but certain populations are particularly at risk. Young adults (ages 18-25) and middle-aged men (ages 35-54) are the most likely to engage in heavy drinking and develop alcohol-related problems. Additionally, the state has seen an uptick in alcohol misuse among older adults, who may be at higher risk due to co-occurring medical conditions and the interaction of alcohol with prescription medications.
• Health and Social Impacts of Alcohol Abuse: Alcohol abuse not only affects the individual but also has far-reaching consequences for families, communities, and the state as a whole. The health and social impacts of alcohol abuse are severe, contributing to a wide range of issues, from chronic diseases to economic costs.
• Physical Health Consequences: Alcohol abuse is linked to numerous physical health problems, some of which can be life-threatening. Chronic heavy drinking is associated with liver diseases such as cirrhosis, pancreatitis, cardiovascular diseases, and an increased risk of various cancers, including liver, breast, and esophageal cancer. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to acute health crises, such as alcohol poisoning, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.
• Mental Health Implications: Alcohol abuse often exacerbates existing mental health conditions or can lead to the development of new ones. Depression, anxiety, and alcohol-induced psychosis are common among those with alcohol use disorders. Furthermore, alcohol abuse can contribute to cognitive decline and increase the risk of suicide. The dual impact on physical and mental health makes alcohol use disorder a particularly challenging condition to treat, requiring integrated care that addresses both aspects.
• Social and Economic Costs: The social impact of alcohol abuse in New Jersey is profound. Families are often strained by the behavior of a loved one struggling with alcohol dependency, leading to issues such as domestic violence, child neglect, and divorce. Moreover, the economic burden on the state is significant, with costs related to healthcare, law enforcement, lost productivity, and traffic accidents. In 2022, alcohol-related traffic fatalities accounted for nearly 30% of all motor vehicle deaths in New Jersey, highlighting the dangerous intersection between alcohol misuse and public safety.

Medical Detox Services

At Serenity at Summit, we offer medically supervised detox programs that are designed to help individuals safely manage withdrawal symptoms. Our experienced medical team is available 24/7 to monitor clients and provide the necessary care during this critical recovery phase. Detox is the first step in our comprehensive treatment process, laying the foundation for long-term sobriety.

Inpatient Treatment Programs

Our inpatient treatment programs provide a structured environment where clients can focus entirely on their recovery.

With round-the-clock care, evidence-based therapies, and a holistic approach, we help individuals address the underlying causes of their addiction while developing the skills needed for lasting recovery.

Outpatient Treatment Services

Serenity at Summit offers flexible outpatient treatment options, including Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP).

These programs are ideal for individuals who have completed inpatient care or need ongoing support while maintaining daily responsibilities.

Holistic and Evidence-Based Therapies

We believe in treating the whole person, not just the addiction. Our holistic approach includes mindfulness, yoga, and nutritional counseling alongside evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). This combination ensures that our clients receive comprehensive care that addresses their physical, mental, and emotional health.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Many individuals who struggle with addiction also face co-occurring mental health disorders. Our dual-diagnosis treatment program is designed to address both addiction and mental health issues simultaneously, providing a more comprehensive and effective approach to recovery.

Aftercare and Continuing Support

Recovery is a lifelong journey, and Serenity at Summit is committed to providing ongoing support even after formal treatment ends. Our aftercare programs include regular check-ins, support groups, and resources to help clients maintain their sobriety and navigate the challenges of post-treatment life.

Tailored Treatment Plans

At Serenity at Summit, we recognize that no two individuals are the same, and neither are their paths to recovery.

Our clinicians work closely with each client to develop a customized treatment plan that meets their unique needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

Accredited Facilities

Our Union, New Jersey facility is accredited by the Joint Commission, a testament to our commitment to providing the highest standards of care. Our staff is comprised of experienced professionals who are dedicated to helping clients achieve and maintain sobriety.

Accessible and Compassionate Care

Located in Union, our facility is easily accessible to residents throughout New Jersey and the surrounding areas. We strive to create a welcoming environment where clients feel supported and empowered throughout their recovery journey.

Insurance Providers

We accept most major insurance plans, including private insurance and Medicaid, to help cover treatment costs. Our team can assist you in verifying your insurance coverage and understanding your benefits.

Financial Assistance

For those without insurance or who need additional help, Serenity at Summit offers financial assistance and payment plans to ensure that financial concerns do not prevent access to the help they need.

Sober Living Homes

Our sober living homes offer a supportive environment where clients can transition from inpatient treatment to independent living. These homes provide structure, accountability, and a community of peers who are also committed to recovery.

Aftercare Programs

Our aftercare programs include regular therapy sessions, support groups, and access to community resources. These programs are designed to help clients navigate life after treatment and prevent relapse.

Community Support

Serenity at Summit also connects clients with local support groups and resources throughout New Jersey to ensure they have the ongoing support needed to maintain their recovery.