Substance Abuse

1. Why do teens experiment with drugs or alcohol?
Teens may experiment due to peer pressure, curiosity, stress, mental health challenges, or a desire to fit in. The adolescent brain is still developing, particularly in areas related to decision-making and impulse control, which can increase risk-taking behavior.

2. What are common signs of substance use in teens?
Warning signs may include sudden changes in mood or behavior, declining grades, changes in friend groups, secrecy, sleep disturbances, bloodshot eyes, unusual smells on clothing, or loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed.

3. Is vaping safer than smoking or other substances?
Many teens believe vaping is harmless, but most vaping products contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and can impact brain development. Some vaping devices may also contain THC or other substances that carry additional health and legal risks.

4. How does substance use affect teen mental health?
Substance use can worsen anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. In some cases, it may increase impulsivity or risky behavior. Teens who are struggling emotionally may turn to substances to cope, which can create a cycle that is difficult to break without support.

5. How should I talk to my teen about drugs or alcohol?
Start early and keep the conversation ongoing. Stay calm, ask open-ended questions, listen without judgment, and clearly communicate your expectations. Teens are more likely to open up when they feel heard and respected.

6. What should I do if I suspect my child is using substances?
Begin with a supportive, non-accusatory conversation. Share specific concerns you’ve noticed and focus on safety. Reach out to your child’s pediatrician, school counselor, or a mental health professional for guidance and possible next steps.

7. Can one-time use really be harmful?
Even one-time use can carry risks, especially with today’s substances, which may be more potent or mixed with unknown ingredients. Early experimentation can also increase the likelihood of continued use over time.

8. What role does the school play in prevention and support?
Schools provide education on substance abuse prevention, promote social-emotional learning, and offer counseling and student assistance services. When concerns arise, schools work in partnership with families to connect students to appropriate resources and supports.

Additional Resources for Families

• DEA Parent Resource – How Teens Misuse Medicine

• Parents: Conversation Starters (NIDA)

• Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey: Parent Education

• Partnership to End Addiction

• Project Medicine Drop

• ReachNJ – Facing Addiction Taskforce

• Talk, They Hear You – Underage Drinking Campaign

Narcotics Anonymous— 1-800-992-0401

Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings are free and open to anyone who thinks he or she might have a substance use problem. Anyone may attend NA, regardless of age, race, sexual identity, creed, religion or lack of religion. There are also NA meetings designated as "Youth" in their online meeting directory.

​NJ Connect — 1-855-652-3737 

A confidential call line to connect substance users with certified drug and alcohol counselors and connect family members with peer specialists.

​NJ Addictions Services Hotline — 1-844-276-2777

This 24/7 hotline is staffed by addiction services specialists with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care (RUBHC) who can provide help to those with substance use needs.

​Special Addiction Treatment Services (SATS) - 1-800-969-5300

SATS is a comprehensive outpatient substance use treatment program from Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, serving the state of New Jersey.

​SAMHSA National Helpline— 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. SAMHSA's Treatment Referral Routing Service Helpline provides 24-hour free and confidential treatment referral and information in English and Spanish about mental and/or substance use disorders, prevention and recovery.

​Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism.

You can use the websites below to find meetings that are closest to where you are located.

North Jersey, including Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean counties

• Intergroup of Northern N.J. — 24-hour toll-free: 1-800-245-1377
  Trenton, Princeton and surrounding areas in southern-central New Jersey 
• Central Jersey Intergroup— 24-hour hotline: 1-609-586-6900
  South Jersey, including Burlington, Camden, Cumberland, Gloucester, and Salem counties
• South Jersey Intergroup Association — 24-hour toll-free: 1-856-486-4444
  Southern Jersey Shore, including Atlantic and Cape May counties 
• Cape Atlantic Intergroup— 24-hour hotline: 1-609-641-8855

NJ Al-Anon/Alateen — 1-888-944-5678

The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics who share their experience, strength and hope to solve their common problems. They believe alcoholism is a family illness and that changed attitudes can aid recovery. Al-Anon has 1 purpose: to help families of alcoholics.

Gambling Anonymous - GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from a gambling problem.

​NJ Connect— 1-855-652-3737

A confidential call line to connect substance users with certified drug and alcohol counselors and connect family members with peer specialists.

​NJ Addictions Services Hotline — 1-844-276-2777

This 24/7 hotline is staffed by addiction services specialists with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care (RUBHC) who can provide help to those with substance use needs.