Drug / Alcohol Info & Support
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Welcome to our drug and alcohol information and support page. Reliable information and resources related to drug and alcohol use, including prevention, assessment, intervention, and treatment are located below. If you would like to speak with school staff regarding drugs and/or alcohol information and support you can contact:
Larry Abramowitz
Supervisor of Special Services
908 735-7929, x1165
🔹 Prevention
Goal: Help students make healthy, informed choices and avoid substance use before it starts.
What is Prevention?
Prevention means taking steps to avoid the risks of alcohol and drug use before problems begin. It's about education, building skills, and creating a safe, supportive environment.
Prevention Tips:
- Learn the facts about drugs and alcohol.
- Practice saying "no" in peer-pressure situations.
- Stay active in hobbies, sports, and clubs.
- Surround yourself with positive influences.
- Talk to a trusted adult if you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
School Prevention Programs:
- Classroom health education
- Guest speakers & workshops
- Peer mentoring programs
- Red Ribbon Week activities
🔹 Assessment
Goal: Identify if someone may be at risk for substance misuse or already struggling.
What is Assessment?
Assessment is the process of evaluating whether a student’s behavior indicates potential issues with drugs or alcohol.
Common Signs to Look For:
- Sudden changes in behavior or mood
- Decline in academic performance
- Withdrawing from friends or activities
- Physical symptoms like red eyes, fatigue, or slurred speech
What to Do:
- School counselors can provide confidential support.
- Screenings may involve a brief questionnaire or conversation.
- Early assessment can prevent long-term consequences.
🔹 Intervention
Goal: Address substance use early and provide support before it escalates.
What is Intervention?
Intervention means stepping in when there are signs of a problem—this might include a meeting with a counselor, parents, and the student to talk about next steps.
Steps in School-Based Intervention:
- Observation: Noticing signs of concern.
- Referral: Reporting concerns to a counselor or school official.
- Meeting: Discussing concerns with the student (and sometimes family).
- Support Plan: Creating a plan that may include counseling, behavior goals, or connecting with external resources.
🔹 Treatment
Goal: Help students recover and build a healthy, substance-free life.
What is Treatment?
Treatment involves professional help for students who are struggling with substance use. It can include counseling, support groups, or medical care.
Treatment Options:
- School-based counseling: Available through the student support team.
- Outpatient services: Visit a counselor or therapist regularly while attending school.
- Inpatient programs: More intensive care in a treatment center.
- Support groups: Like Teen AA or SMART Recovery for Teens.
How to Access Help:
- Talk to a school counselor, nurse, or trusted teacher.
- Call a local treatment center or youth helpline (see resources below).
🛠️ Resources
- SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) – Free, confidential 24/7 support
- Partnership to End Addiction – drugfree.org
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) – teens.drugabuse.gov
- Local School Counselor or Social Worker – Drop by your school's main office for a referral
❤️ Remember
You are never alone. Whether you're seeking help for yourself or someone you care about, there are people who will listen and support you without judgment. Asking for help is a sign of strength.
For more assistance, please contact:
Larry Abramowitz
Supervisor of Special Services
908 735-7929, x1165
