Wednesday, August 31, 2005

County Offers Free Substance Abuse Screenings

In recognition of National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, the Atlantic County Division of Public Health will begin offering free substance abuse screenings to county residents.

"We are working to ensure that our residents have access to all of the available assessment and substance abuse treatment programs they may need," stated County Executive Dennis Levinson.

Beginning September 12, residents will be able to schedule an appointment for a substance abuse screening, at no charge. The free, confidential screenings will be provided at the Stillwater Building, 201 S. Shore Road, Northfield. Referrals and information will be available to those who need further treatment.

"Substance abuse and addiction are serious public health issues," said County Health Officer Patricia Diamond. "This program will provide treatment options and support to substance dependent individuals and their families."

Millions of Americans have substance use disorders and millions more live in households with people who have had problems with alcohol or drugs. As many as 63 percent of Americans say that addiction to alcohol or other drugs has had an impact on them at some point in their lives, whether it was a personal addiction or that of a friend or family member. By helping even one person achieve recovery, many lives can be improved.

During National Recovery Month communities nationwide join together to recognize that substance use disorders are treatable diseases. The initiative of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Center for Substance Abuse Treatment is to heal lives, families and communities during this month long celebration. The Atlantic County Division of Public Health will continue to offer substance abuse screening appointments on an ongoing basis.

For more information about substance abuse screenings or to schedule an appointment, call the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at 609-645-5932, or visit the county Web site at: www.aclink.org/publichealth.

Click here for more information.

County News