Drug Addiction: Definition, Types, Signs, Symptoms, Treatment

Drug addiction, medically referred to as Substance Use Disorder (SUD), is a complex and chronic condition characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior and continued use despite harmful consequences. In 2022, approximately 48.7 million individuals aged 12 and older, representing 17.3 percent of the population, experienced a substance use disorder (SUD) within the previous year. This figure includes 29.5 million people with an alcohol use disorder, 27.2 million with a drug use disorder, and 8 million who struggled with both alcohol and drug use disorders, per a survey published in SAMHSA titled “Results from the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.”

The common types of drug addiction include opioid use disorder, alcohol use disorder, cannabis use disorder, cocaine use disorder, and nicotine use disorder. Each type presents unique challenges and health risks, with opioids being particularly notorious for their high potential for addiction and overdose.

The main signs and symptoms of drug addiction encompass a range of physical, psychological, and behavioral indicators. Physically, individuals experience changes in appetite, weight fluctuations, and impaired coordination. Psychologically, symptoms include mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Behaviorally, signs manifest as neglect of responsibilities, secretive behavior regarding substance use, and engaging in risky activities to obtain drugs. Notably, 70% of individuals who try an illegal drug before age 13 develop a substance use disorder within the next seven years, according to drug abuse statistics published by NIDA. 

Effective treatment options for drug addiction involve a combination of pharmacological interventions, psychotherapy, and behavioral therapies. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is particularly effective for opioid use disorder, while cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) addresses underlying psychological issues. Relapse prevention strategies are important components of treatment, focusing on equipping individuals with coping mechanisms to manage triggers and cravings. Outpatient treatment programs allow individuals to receive care while maintaining their daily responsibilities, making them a viable option for many seeking recovery.

What Is Drug Addiction?

Drug addiction is defined as a chronic disease characterized by compulsive drug use and seeking, despite the harmful consequences that arise. Addiction is considered a brain disorder because it involves changes to brain circuits related to reward, stress, and self-control. The impact of drug addiction is profound and multifaceted, affecting individuals physically, emotionally, and socially. Physically, addiction leads to significant health issues, including physical dependence on substances, which results in withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug. Emotionally, individuals experience heightened anxiety, depression, and mood swings, exacerbating their compulsive behavior.

Socially, drug addiction leads to strained relationships with family and friends, isolation, and difficulties in maintaining employment or fulfilling responsibilities, ultimately disrupting the individual’s overall quality of life. According to the 2023 United States National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), approximately 48.5 million Americans aged 12 and older, or 16.7%, experienced a substance use disorder over the past year. Additionally, 10.2% of individuals in this age group were reported to have an alcohol use disorder during the same timeframe.

How Does Drug Addiction Differ From Dependence?

Drug addiction differs from dependence in that dependence is primarily characterized by tolerance and withdrawal, while addiction involves compulsive drug-seeking behavior. Dependence occurs when an individual requires increasing amounts of a substance to achieve the desired effects and experiences withdrawal symptoms upon cessation. Conversely, addiction encompasses a broader range of behaviors, including the inability to control drug use despite experiencing negative consequences. While dependence exists without addiction, addiction inherently involves a level of dependence, as noted in a 2020 research by NIDA titled “Drug Misuse and Addiction.”

What are the Different Types of Drug Addictions?

Drug addiction is classified into several main categories, including prescription drug addiction, illicit drug addiction, and alcohol addiction. Each type presents unique challenges and societal implications.

The different classifications of drug addiction include:

1. Opioid Addiction

Opioid addiction occurs when individuals misuse prescription pain medications or illegal opioids. Opioids, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, bind to opioid receptors in the brain, leading to pain relief and feelings of euphoria. Common symptoms of opioid addiction include cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and neglect of responsibilities. Treatment options often involve Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), which combines medications like methadone or buprenorphine with counseling.

In 2021, approximately 2.5 million adults in the U.S. were diagnosed with opioid use disorder within the previous year. Still, only 22% of those individuals—about 1 in 5—received medication-assisted treatment for their condition, per research published by the NIH in 2023 titled “Only 1 in 5 U.S. adults with opioid use disorder received medications to treat it in 2021.”

2. Stimulant Addiction

Stimulant addiction refers to dependence on substances that increase energy and alertness. Stimulants like cocaine, methamphetamine, and prescription medications (Adderall, Ritalin) enhance dopamine levels in the brain, leading to heightened focus and energy but also a risk of addiction. The National Institute on Drug Abuse in a study titled “What is the scope of prescription drug misuse in the United States?” reported that in 2021, around 0.5% of individuals aged 12 and older—equivalent to roughly 1.5 million people—experienced a prescription stimulant use disorder within the previous year.

3. Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol addiction, or alcohol use disorder (AUD), is characterized by an inability to control drinking despite negative consequences. According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health titled “Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the United States: Age Groups and Demographic Characteristics”, 28.9 million Americans aged 12 and older experienced alcohol addiction in the past year, highlighting its prevalence. In New Jersey, the rate of alcohol-related problems remains a significant public health concern.

4. Hallucinogenic Addiction

Hallucinogenic addiction involves a psychological dependence on substances like LSD, psilocybin, and PCP, which alter perceptions and can lead to profound changes in consciousness. While these substances are generally not considered physically addictive, they can create intense psychological dependence. Treatment typically focuses on psychotherapy and coping strategies. The 2021 NSDUH reported that 3.6% of individuals aged 12 or older (10.6 million people) used hallucinogens in the past year. This includes 8.1% (2.7 million) of young adults aged 18-25, 3.0% (6.6 million) of adults 26 and older, and 2.0% (521,000) of adolescents aged 12-17 (SAMHSA, 2021).

5. Barbiturate Addiction

Barbiturate addiction occurs with the misuse of sedatives used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders. Common barbiturates include phenobarbital and secobarbital. While effective for medical use, they carry a high risk of addiction, overdose, and dangerous withdrawal symptoms. The CDC notes that barbiturate overdoses can result in significant health risks and fatalities.

6. Benzodiazepine Addiction

Benzodiazepine addiction involves dependence on anti-anxiety medications such as Xanax, Valium, and Ativan. These medications can provide relief from anxiety but are highly addictive and carry risks of withdrawal. In the U.S., benzodiazepines were also involved in 14% of opioid overdose deaths in 2021, emphasizing the dangers of combining these substances, as mentioned in a 2022 study by the NIH titled “Benzodiazepines and Opioids.”

7. Inhalant Addiction

Inhalant addiction refers to the misuse of substances like paint thinners, nitrous oxide, and glue for their psychoactive effects. Inhalants provide short-lived highs but can lead to severe brain damage and other health issues. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in a 2012 review titled “Understanding Adolescent Inhalant Use” reports that In 2015, approximately 684,000 teenagers between the ages of 12 and 17 reported using inhalants in the previous year.

8. Depressant Addiction

Depressant addiction occurs with substances that slow brain activity, leading to relaxation but also dependence. Common depressants include prescription sleep aids and anxiety medications, as well as illicit substances. Overdose risks are significant, and the age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) for drug poisoning deaths involving any CNS depressant drugs rose from 5.61 deaths per 100,000 in 2004 to 6.38 deaths per 100,000 by 2017, indicating a notable increase over this period, as noted in a study by Ena L., et al published in BMJ Open in 2021 titled “Trends in drug poisoning deaths, by sex, in Ireland: a repeated cross-sectional study from 2004 to 2017.”

9. Nicotine Addiction

Nicotine addiction arises from the use of tobacco products and is characterized by strong cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Smoking and vaping are significant contributors to nicotine dependence, leading to long-term health risks such as lung disease and cancer. According to the CDC report published in 2024 titled “Cigarette Smoking,” smoking-related illnesses account for more than 480,000 deaths annually in the U.S.

10. Marijuana Addiction

Marijuana addiction, or cannabis use disorder, occurs when individuals develop a psychological dependence on marijuana. While often viewed as less addictive, research by Norah D., et al published in PubMed Central in 2016 titled “Adverse Health Effects of Marijuana Use” indicates that about 9% of users will develop a dependence, with this rate increasing among those who start in adolescence. 

What Are Common Symptoms of Drug Addiction?

The common symptoms of drug addiction are categorized into behavioral, physical, and psychological signs. Recognizing these symptoms is necessary for early intervention and treatment. An additional symptom of drug addiction is prolonged drug use which leads to a diminished enjoyment of other activities that were once pleasurable. As a result, individuals  find themselves needing to use the drug simply to feel a sense of normalcy, as indicated in a 2020 research published by NIDA titled “Drug Misuse and Addiction.”

The symptoms of drug addiction are explained below:

1. Behavioral Symptoms

Behavioral symptoms refer to changes in an individual’s actions and interactions that signal substance use problems. These symptoms include:

• Secrecy: Drug addiction makes individuals increasingly secretive about their activities, lying about their whereabouts or who they are with. This secrecy indicates a growing dependence on substances, suggesting that they feel the need to hide their usage from family and friends.
• Isolation: A person struggling with addiction will withdraw from social interactions, choosing to spend time alone instead of with loved ones. This isolation leads to a further decline in mental health and indicates that the individual is prioritizing substance use over relationships.
• Neglect of Responsibilities: Neglecting duties at work, school, or home is a significant red flag. It manifests as missed deadlines, poor performance, or a lack of care for household tasks, pointing to an overwhelming focus on obtaining and using drugs.  recent marijuana use was found to increase the risk of job loss by 50%, according to a study by Carina N., et al in Healthcare in 2023 titled “Unemployment and Substance Use: An Updated Review of Studies from North America and Europe.”
• Changes in Social Circles: Individuals start associating with new friends who share similar substance-use behaviors, distancing themselves from previous relationships. This shift indicates a deeper commitment to drug use, suggesting the need for intervention from concerned friends or family.

2. Physical Symptoms

Physical symptoms are observable changes in a person’s body that indicate substance abuse. The physical symptoms of drug addiction include:

• Weight Changes: Significant fluctuations in weight, whether loss or gain,  occur due to drug use. Some substances suppress appetite, leading to weight loss, while others cause cravings for unhealthy foods, resulting in weight gain.
• Bloodshot Eyes: Red or watery eyes are common indicators of substance use,  associated with marijuana or alcohol consumption. These physical signs are a warning that the individual’s drug use is affecting their health and overall appearance.
• Frequent Illnesses: Regularly falling ill indicates a weakened immune system due to the body’s response to drugs. Long-term substance abuse leads to chronic health issues, making individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases. Injection drug use accounts for 1 in 10 new HIV cases and is a major contributor to hepatitis C transmission, as stated in a research by NIDA in 2020 titled “What are the other health consequences of drug addiction?”
  Poor Personal Hygiene: Neglecting personal care signals a deeper issue related to addiction. When individuals prioritize drug use over self-care, it leads to long-term physical and psychological health consequences.

3. Psychological Symptoms

Psychological symptoms encompass emotional and mental health changes that accompany substance abuse. The psychological symptoms of drug addiction are mentioned below:

• Mood Swings: Rapid and intense changes in mood indicate emotional instability caused by addiction. Individuals experience extreme highs and lows, reflecting the impact of substances on their emotional regulation.
• Anxiety: Increased feelings of anxiety or panic attacks are a direct result of substance dependence. This anxiety is exacerbated by the stress of maintaining drug use or the fear of withdrawal symptoms. Approximately 17.7% of individuals with a SUD also meet criteria for an independent anxiety disorder. The odds ratio (OR) for the association between anxiety disorders and drug use disorders is 2.8, while for alcohol use disorders, it is 1.7. In treatment settings, around 80% of individuals in SUD treatment have at least one co-occurring anxiety disorder, per review by Kathleen T., et al published in the PubMed Central in 2013 titled “Substance Use Disorders and Anxiety: A Treatment Challenge for Social Workers.”
• Depression: Feelings of sadness or hopelessness are common among those struggling with addiction. Substance abuse co-occurs with depression, creating a vicious cycle that is challenging to break.
• Paranoia: Heightened feelings of suspicion or fear manifest in individuals using certain drugs. This paranoia leads to social withdrawal and further exacerbates mental health issues.

What Are the Subtle Early Warning Signs of Drug Addiction?

The subtle early warning signs of drug addiction in life include mood swings, increased secrecy, and neglecting responsibilities. Noticeable mood swings involve individuals experiencing rapid emotional changes that seem out of character. 30% of individuals with substance use disorders report significant mood disturbances, according to a report published by Nature in 2024 titled “The impact of lifetime substance use on psychiatric comorbidities and treatment seeking in patients with alcohol use disorders.”

The second warning sign of drug addiction is increased secrecy accompanies these mood fluctuations; individuals become more evasive about their activities and relationships, hiding their substance use from family and friends. Additionally, neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home signals a growing dependence on drugs. Addressing these early signs is essential, as early intervention significantly improves the chances of recovery and prevents the situation from escalating.

What Are the Most Effective Treatment Options for Drug Addiction?

The most effective treatment options for drug addiction include detoxification, medication-assisted treatment, psychotherapy and counseling, family therapy, and holistic therapies. 

The effects of treatment options for drug addiction are explained below:

1. Detoxification  

Detoxification is the first step in treatment aimed at removing substances from the body and managing withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision. During medical detoxification, individuals undergo a structured process that includes medication to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, monitoring vital signs, and psychological support. Among those who undergo detoxification, only about 13% receive additional rehabilitation treatment during their inpatient stay, per research by BMC Public Health published in 2018 titled “National trends and characteristics of inpatient detoxification for drug use disorders in the United States.” This highlights a significant gap between detoxification and ongoing treatment, which is essential for long-term recovery.

2. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combines FDA-approved medications, such as methadone and buprenorphine, with counseling to provide a comprehensive approach to addiction recovery. MAT plays an important role in managing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, helping individuals stabilize their lives. MAT reduces the risk of relapse by up to 50%, according to a 2020 study by NIDA. This demonstrates its effectiveness in drug addiction treatment.

3. Psychotherapy and Counseling  

Psychotherapy and counseling are essential components of addiction treatment that address the psychological and emotional factors contributing to substance use. These therapeutic modalities include commonly used therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). By helping individuals understand their thoughts and behaviors, these therapies promote healthier coping mechanisms and support long-term recovery.

4. Family Therapy  

Family therapy is a specialized approach that involves the participation of family members in the treatment process. This therapy helps rebuild relationships, address enabling behaviors, and create a support network for recovery. Family-involved treatments showed a small effect size that translated to a 5.7% reduction in substance use frequency, which corresponds to approximately three fewer weeks per year of substance use, according to a meta-analysis by Aaron H., et al published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment in 2021 titled “Family Involvement in Treatment and Recovery for Substance Use Disorders among Transition-Age Youth: Research Bedrocks and Opportunities.”

5. Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment provides structured addiction care while allowing individuals to maintain their daily responsibilities, such as work, school, or family obligations. This form of treatment includes regular therapy sessions, medical supervision, and support groups without requiring a residential stay. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), outpatient programs offer various levels of care, including intensive outpatient treatment programs (IOPs) and partial hospitalization programs (PHPs), which provide frequent therapy while allowing individuals to return home each day (SAMHSA, 2021).

6. Holistic Therapies  

Holistic therapies encompass a wide range of practices aimed at improving mental health and overall well-being during recovery. Examples include yoga, meditation, stress management techniques, and art therapy. These therapies focus on mindfulness and complementary approaches that enhance the individual’s emotional and physical health. A 2018 randomized controlled trial (RCT) by the Journal of Neurosciences in Rural Practice titled “Role of Yoga in Management of Substance-use Disorders: A Narrative Review” involving 82 participants reported that 95% of participants felt that yoga helped them quit tobacco, with 65% achieving complete abstinence during the intervention period

What Role Do Outpatient Programs Play in Treating Addiction?

The role of outpatient programs is to provide individuals with the flexibility to receive care while maintaining their daily responsibilities, such as work or school. These programs involve regular therapy sessions, counseling, and support groups, allowing participants to engage in treatment without the need for a residential stay. 

Approximately 76% of those who complete outpatient treatment for alcohol addiction report being sober at three months post-treatment, and about 69% remain sober at six months, according to a study by Dennis M., et al., published in Psychiatric Serv in 2015.

Outpatient programs are also affordable,  costing between $1,000 and $10,000 for a 30-day program in New Jersey, compared to inpatient treatment, which ranges from $5,000 to $30,000. This affordability is highlighted in a 2024 review by River Journal.

Moreover, these programs foster community support, allowing participants to share experiences and receive encouragement from peers, which enhances motivation to stay sober. In New Jersey, there are 333 outpatient rehab centers available, providing extensive options for those seeking help.

How Does Mental Health Complicate Drug Addiction Treatment?

Mental health significantly complicates drug addiction treatment, particularly through the prevalence of co-occurring disorders, which are conditions where an individual experiences both a substance use disorder (SUD) and a mental health disorder simultaneously. This dual diagnosis creates a complex treatment landscape, as each disorder exacerbates the other. For instance, individuals with anxiety or depression turn to drugs or alcohol as a form of self-medication, leading to a cycle of worsening mental health and increased substance use. Approximately 21.5 million adults in the United States have a co-occurring disorder, highlighting the widespread nature of this issue), according to a study by the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment.

Integrated care, which combines mental health and addiction treatment, is essential for effectively addressing these co-occurring disorders. Individuals with co-occurring disorders who receive integrated care are more likely to complete treatment and maintain sobriety compared to those who receive treatment for only one condition. For example, among individuals treated in programs that provide specific dual diagnosis services, there are higher rates of utilizing mental health services and greater improvements in psychological functioning. 

How Can Drug Addiction Be Prevented?

Drug addiction can be prevented through adequate education, strong family support, early interventions, and community resources. The Project Towards No Drug Abuse program showed a 25% reduction in hard drug use and a 27% reduction in cigarette use among high-risk students, according to a study published in the Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America journal in 2010 titled “Evidence-Based Interventions for Preventing Substance Use Disorders in Adolescents.”

Drug addiction  be prevented through these means below:

• Education: Providing comprehensive education about the risks of drug use and the importance of making healthy choices empowers individuals, especially youth, to avoid substance abuse. Programs that educate students about the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs have shown effectiveness in reducing usage rates. 
• Family Support: Strong family connections and open communication significantly reduce the risk of drug addiction. Families that engage in discussions about drug use and establish clear expectations help create a supportive environment that discourages substance abuse.
• Early Interventions: Identifying and addressing substance use problems early to prevent the progression of addiction. Screening for substance use in schools and healthcare settings helps identify at-risk individuals and connect them with appropriate resources. Early interventions for substance-using adolescents have a small but significant overall effect size of 0.25 (p < 0.001) on reducing substance use. The specific effect size for substance use was 0.24 (p < 0.001), while behavioral outcomes showed an effect size of 0.28 (p < 0.001). Notably, interventions with multiple sessions yielded a stronger effect size of 0.44 (p < 0.001) compared to 0.11 (p = 0.008) for single sessions, according to a 2012 study published by Biomed Central titled “Effectiveness of early interventions for substance-using adolescents: findings from a systematic review and meta-analysis.”
• Community Resources: Utilizing local community resources, such as counseling services, support groups, and educational programs,  provide individuals and families with the tools they need to prevent drug addiction. In New Jersey, resources like the New Jersey Department of Human Services offer various programs aimed at prevention and intervention.
• Holistic Approaches: Implementing holistic care strategies that address mental health alongside substance use is effective. Programs that integrate mental health services with addiction treatment have shown improved outcomes for individuals with co-occurring disorders.
• Peer Support Programs: Encouraging participation in peer support groups fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is protective against substance use. Programs like “This is Quitting” provide support for young people looking to quit vaping and other substance use.

What Are Effective Strategies to Prevent Relapse from Drug Addiction?

The effective strategies to prevent relapse from drug addiction include trigger management, regular therapy, support groups, mindfulness and relaxation techniques, and building a supportive network.

The effective strategies to prevent relapse from drug addiction are explained below:

• Triggers Management: Identifying and managing triggers—situations, emotions, or people that provoke cravings—is important for preventing relapse. Developing a personalized plan to avoid or cope with these triggers helps individuals maintain sobriety. A study found that 70% of relapses occur within the first six months of recovery,  triggered by stress or environmental cues, as indicated in a study by Rajita S., et al published in the Current Psychiatry Rep in 2013 titled “New Findings on Biological Factors Predicting Addiction Relapse Vulnerability.”
• Regular Therapy: Engaging in ongoing therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), helps individuals develop coping mechanisms and address underlying issues related to addiction. Regular sessions reinforce skills learned during initial treatment and provide ongoing support. 
• Support Groups: Participating in support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), offers individuals a sense of community and shared experience. A 2013–2014 survey of 265 recovering addiction professionals in the United States found a relapse rate of 14.7%. The study identified that attending more mutual-aid group meetings per month significantly reduced the likelihood of relapse (Wald = 7.956, p = .005) and that having a longer recovery period before starting their careers also contributed to lower relapse rates (Wald = 4.366, p = .037), as published in research gate in 2019 titled “Relapse among Recovering Addiction Professionals: Prevalence and Predictors.”
• Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or yoga enhances emotional regulation and reduces stress, which is vital for maintaining sobriety. These techniques help individuals develop healthier responses to cravings and stressors. The study on mindfulness-based intervention for psychosis (MBI-p) involved 152 patients, with a relapse rate of 13.0% (10 patients) in the MBI-p group and 13.3% (10 patients) in the psychoeducation group, resulting in an odds ratio of 1.064 (95% CI [0.410, 2.762], p = 0.889), indicating no significant difference in relapse rates, per research published in Nature in 2024 titled “Effects of mindfulness-based intervention in preventing relapse in patients with remitted psychosis: a randomized controlled trial.”
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Incorporating regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep into daily routines improves overall well-being and resilience against relapse. Physical health is closely linked to mental health, making lifestyle changes an essential part of recovery. 
• Building a Supportive Network: Surrounding oneself with supportive friends and family who encourage sobriety significantly decreases the risk of relapse. A strong social support system provides accountability and emotional backing during challenging times. 

Can Drug Addiction Be Cured Completely?

No, drug addiction cannot be completely cured, but it is managed effectively with ongoing care and support. Addiction is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management. Individuals in recovery benefit from continuous care, including therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes that promote overall well-being. By addressing underlying issues and developing coping strategies, many people lead fulfilling lives while managing their addiction.

How Can You Get Help for Drug Addiction?

You get help for drug addiction by seeking assistance from local treatment centers or rehabilitation facilities that offer specialized programs tailored to individual needs. Many communities provide helplines that offer immediate support and guidance on available resources. Additionally, consider joining support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), where individuals share experiences and gain encouragement from others facing similar challenges. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and there are numerous resources available to support you on the path to recovery.

What Local Resources Are Available for Drug Addiction Treatment in New Jersey?

The local resources that are available for drug addiction treatment in New Jersey include the Rubicon Recovery Center,  Crisis Text Line, Narcotics Anonymous (NA) New Jersey, Narcotics Anonymous, and the New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services. Drug addiction treatment in New Jersey is necessary for long term sobriety and to prevent relapse. 

The local resources that are available for drug addiction treatment in New Jersey are listed below:

• Rubicon Recovery Center: Located in Watchung, New Jersey, the Rubicon Recovery Center is a comprehensive addiction treatment facility dedicated to providing personalized care for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. The center focuses on a holistic approach to recovery, recognizing that addiction affects not only the individual but also their families and communities. Phone: (908) 322-0122
• Northern New Jersey Alcoholic Anonymous: This is a fellowship of individuals sharing their experience to help others recover from alcoholism. Phone: 1-800-245-1377.
• Crisis Text Line: This provides free, 24/7 support via text for individuals in crisis, including substance use issues. Contact:Text “NJ” to 741741.
• Narcotics Anonymous (NA) New Jersey: NA is a peer support group that offers a safe space for individuals in recovery to share their experiences and encourage one another. Phone: (800) 992-0401.

New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services: This state helpline operates 24/7 to provide immediate support and guidance for individuals seeking help with addiction. Phone: (800) 238-2333.