The number of people on Long Island seeking help for prescription painkiller addiction has spiked in recent years, rising 36% since 2007. Newsday interviews Phoenix House client Matthew C. about his personal struggle with prescription medication and recovery process. read more
Of the 2.3 million inmates in the U.S., more than half have a history of substance abuse and addiction. Newsweek asks the question, if treatment for drug addiction works better and costs less than imprisonment alone, why are states abandoning it? read more
A recent study by the Partnership for a Drug-Free America found that more than two-thirds of teen girls reported using drugs helps kids cope with problems at home, and half said drugs help teens forget troubles, USA Today reports. read more
Researchers estimate that 10 million Americans now use coke with some regularity and many experts are labeling it as the new “all-American drug”, Time Magazine reports. read more
The Boston police department and city public health commission recently created collection sites to dispose of unused prescription drugs and needles, with the goal of keeping hazardous drugs away from teenagers, the Boston Globe reports. read more
In an effort to prevent underage drinking, a new law in Indiana will require all convenience stores, pharmacies, and supermarkets to check photo ID for anyone purchasing alcohol, the Chicago Tribune reports. read more
In a presentation at the American College Health Association’s conference, Edward Ehlinger, director of Boynton Health Service at the University of Minnesota, said colleges should work with governments and businesses to change how we think about alcohol. read more
Newsday reports that the number of young Long Islanders in treatment for heroin addiction has more than doubled in the last two years and interviews Phoenix House client Armando S. read more
New England Cable News highlights the widespread abuse of prescription drugs and interviews Dillon Eaton, who after overcoming a seven year drug addiction, now works as a mentor to help others. read more
WABC 7 Eyewitness News continues its ongoing report on the rise of heroin use, focusing on the issues of insurance and treatment and also interviewing eight young adults who receive treatment at our Phoenix House in Hauppauge, New York. read more