Blog
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One Month Left for High School Musicians to Shine in "Your Song! Your Voice!" Competition
Calling all high school musicians in New Jersey—there’s just one month left to enter the Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs competition!
If you (or a student you know) love writing music and want to use your talent to spread a positive message, this is your chance. The challenge? Create an original song about substance use prevention and healthy choices. Whether you’re into rock, hip-hop, jazz, or R&B, all genres are welcome!
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FDA Grants Approval for Non-Opioid Alternative for Pain Management
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently announced its approval for Journavx, a non-opioid alternative “to treat moderate to severe acute pain in adults.” Developed by Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated, the drug will be administered in 50 milligram oral tablets and works by targeting pathways in the nervous system addressing pain signals before they reach the brain.
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Invitation to PDFNJ's Annual Drug-Free Workplace Webinar
We know that those who work in the health field, education and law enforcement all have an important role to play in our efforts to address substance use and misuse in our communities. One important but often overlooked ally in our efforts at prevention are employers. Employers can provide education and assistance not only to their employees but to their families as well.
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Teen Substance Use is Down—Here’s What We Know
There’s encouraging news about teen substance use in the U.S. A new study from Monitoring the Future reveals that record numbers of teens are steering clear of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco. Among 12th graders, 66 percent reported no use of these substances in the past 30 days, while 80 percent of 10th graders and 90 percent of 8th graders said the same.
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Research Study by Rutgers Shows Overall Benefits of Prescribing Non-Opioids After Dental Surgery
A recent study by the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine clearly shows patients are better off not being prescribed an opioid after dental procedures. The study not only demonstrates that pain management is better for patients without opioids, it also showed they sleep better and are better able to engage in regular daily activities while recovering from surgery.
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Empowering Student-Athletes: A Partnership to Combat the Opioid Crisis
Over the past year, PDFNJ has had the opportunity to connect with student-athletes across New Jersey, sharing critical information about the dangers of opioid misuse. Our mission to empower young people has been strengthened through meaningful community partnerships, thought-provoking discussions, and the inspiring engagement of the students themselves. These events were made possible through the generous support of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, whose commitment to community wellness has been instrumental in extending our reach.
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Why Every Second Counts: Understanding Marijuana’s Impact on Youth
Running a second slower or missing the final shot can make or break a game in sports. For students, the difference between a "C" and a "B+" could mean acceptance to their dream school. As part of PDFNJ’s 2025 PSA campaign, parents and students are reminded that marijuana use by minors impacts coordination, concentration, and reaction time—skills critical for success in athletics, academics, and life.
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Happy New Year!
All of us at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey want to wish you a safe, healthy and peaceful New Year.
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Warm Wishes for the Holiday Season!
All of us at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey would like to wish you Merry Christmas and extend our warmest wishes for a peaceful and joyous holiday season!
Continued wishes to stay safe and well.
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Keeping the Conversation Going: Talking to Teens About Marijuana This Winter Break
In New Jersey, the numbers are concerning. According to the 2021 New Jersey Student Health Survey, 17 percent of students had reported using marijuana in the past 30 days, and 3 person had tried it before age 13. As recreational cannabis becomes more accessible to adults in the state, teens face new risks. Their developing brains are particularly vulnerable, with marijuana potentially impairing memory, focus, and problem-solving skills. Regular use can even affect academic and athletic performance — and future opportunities.