COUNTY – In recognition of Alcohol Awareness Month, the Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services have partnered with Atlantic Health System in presenting “Overcoming Alcohol in 2024,” a virtual webinar being held via Zoom on Thursday, April 11 from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m. The live discussion regarding the impact of alcohol addiction on the family and the individual will be hosted by Medical Director of theAddiction Psychiatry Unit at Overlook Medical Center, Dr. James Sherer. This is a free event, but preregistration is required. Visit https:// ucnj.org/aam to register.
“Enhancing the well-being of all residents lies at the core of our county’s mission to cultivate a stronger, more supportive, and empathetic community. In alignment with this commitment, we partnered with Atlantic Health Systems to present an informative class for your convenience in the comfort and privacy of your own home,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Acknowledging the sensitivity and challenges associated with alcohol addiction, we emphasize that you are not alone, and there are available resources to support you in overcoming this challenge.”
Join us for a discussion on identifying the signs of alcohol addiction, also known as ‘Alcohol Use Disorder’ in the mental health field. You will also learn valuable tips on approaching loved ones struggling with this disorder and the different treatment options available. A better understanding of these options can make a significant difference in achieving a successful recovery and avoiding relapses.
According to data from the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 29.5 million individuals aged 12 and above reported experiencing alcohol addiction in the United States within the past year. In the 2022 NJ Drug and Alcohol Abuse Treatment Substance Abuse overview, it was reported that 37 percent of Substance Abuse Treatment Admissions for Union County residents identified alcohol as their primary drug. Alcoholism is a progressive disorder, as the dependency on alcohol increases over time and can lead to severe health problems and loss of control.
‘We acknowledge that the impact of alcohol misuse is not only on individuals, but also on their loved ones,’ said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. ‘This virtual seminar is an additional way that Union County provides support to our residents who may need it. I would like to invite you or anyone you know that may be facing this challenge, to register for this free webinar. Through the provision of appropriate tools and support, we can collaboratively contribute to building a healthier and happier community.”
A national helpline run by the Council on Substance Abuse – National Council on Alcoholism is available to the public at 800-662-HELP (4357) to provide free, confidential referrals and information on a 24/7, 365-daya- year basis.
For more information about the 2024 Alcohol Awareness campaign in Union County, contact Gene Tavera, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Coordinator, Division of Individual & Family Support Services, Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse, in the Union County Department of Human Services, at gene.tavera@ucnj.org or (908) 5274844.
To learn more about events and programs offered through the Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs.
