Sunrise Detox Center Highlights National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week, March 18 - 24, 2024
National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week® (NDAFW) is an essential observance for Sunrise Detox Center. This week-long event from March 18–24 focuses on debunking myths and spreading factual information about substance use and its impact on mental health, particularly among our nation’s youth.
Recent data revealing the rise in mental health and substance use disorders and similar challenges underscore the significance of NDAFW.
The NDAFW initiative began in 2010 and brings together scientists, educators, and communities to promote science-based understanding of drug use and addiction. This collaboration is crucial for fostering environments supporting informed decision-making and early intervention.
ADDRESSING THE NUMBERS FOR SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS
“These NDAFW facts show us that it’s time for us to unify as a community and prioritize addiction treatment. Only by working together can we hope to overcome this crisis. These numbers seem disturbing, but accurate," says Scott Busby, head of admissions for Praesum Healthcare.
New Jersey, where Praesum has a full continuum of care, last year yielded 87,000 admissions to various drug and alcohol treatment centers. Praesum Healthcare’s committed team believes in treating the individual, not just the substance use disorder. Our approach is rooted in the understanding that each journey is unique, and so is every recovery.
"At Sunrise Detox, we address the specific needs of each individual," continued Mr. Busby. ”Recovery encompasses various forms of support, including medication for withdrawal symptoms, therapy, and potentially, rehabilitation services. With a vast number of admissions for treatment related to heroin and alcohol use, our focus remains on offering personalized care that respects the individual journey of each person seeking help. That starts with working with community organizations in every county and providing outreach for both urban and rural areas.”
Understanding that addiction is a disease—not a moral failing—is vital. Those struggling with substance use disorders often find it difficult to stop using, even when aware of the harm.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports concerning trends, such as the increase in polysubstance use—using more than one substance at a time—which can lead to unpredictable and often dangerous effects. Among these substances, alcohol is notably the most commonly used substance by young people, leading to severe public health concerns:
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Alcohol-related fatalities: Excessive underage drinking results in approximately 3,900 deaths annually among people under age 21 in the U.S.
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Emergency department visits: In 2016, about 1 in 5 visits associated with the misuse of prescription medicines also involved alcohol.
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Substance use disorders: An estimated 1 in 7 Americans reports experiencing a substance use disorder at some point in their lives.
To address these needs, we advocate for equitable access to treatment services, emphasizing the importance of gender-responsive care, age-appropriate interventions, and integrated care for co-occurring disorders. By ensuring that anyone needing help can find it—whether within our network or through referrals—we strive to weave a comprehensive safety net of support.
Our commitment to recovery extends beyond our detox programs. It's about nurturing a community of care and ensuring that the path to sobriety is accessible to everyone. This NDAFW, let's join together to spread knowledge, support recovery, and build a foundation for healthier lives free from substance use and mental health disorders.
For more information on our approach to care or if you or someone you know needs immediate help with addiction, please visit www.sunrisedetox.com or call our 24/7 hotline at 833-248-6271. Your journey to recovery is important, and together, we can face these challenges with knowledge, compassion, and hope.