Bergen county higher education addiction prevention consortium (BC heap) - children's aid and family services (cafs) is requesting $375,000 from the substance abuse mental health services…

Bergen county higher education addiction prevention consortium (BC heap) - children's aid and family services (cafs) is requesting $375,000 from the substance abuse mental health services administration (samhsa) to establish the bergen county higher education addiction prevention consortium (BC heap consortium) in collaboration with five (5) postsecondary institutions in bergen county, NJ: bergen county community college, eastwick college, fairleigh dickinson university, felician university, and ramapo college. This consortium aims to develop a comprehensive prevention framework tailored to college-enrolled students aged 17-25 across all five (5) institutions. This will effectively strengthen and build upon the organization's existing prevention work throughout bergen county and expand the capacity of local community prevention providers to implement evidence-based prevention programs. Led by cafs, the BC heap consortium aims to accomplish three primary goals: 1) increase collaboration among the five (5) bergen county higher education institutions to address substance use and misuse amongst students between the ages of 17 and 25, 2) decrease substance use and misuse among postsecondary students between 17 and 25 years old, and 3) increase access to resources that reduce the harms related to substance use/misuse and support mental wellness and recovery. Postsecondary student drug use and misuse is a recognized problem in the united states. Research studies and surveys have consistently shown that substance use among this population is prevalent and can have serious consequences. Commonly misused substances among college students include alcohol, marijuana, prescription medications (such as stimulants, sedatives and opioids), and illicit drugs which may include counterfeit prescription pills which, when analyzed by law enforcement, all contain fentanyl or other analogues of fentanyl. The use of these substances can lead to a range of negative outcomes, including academic difficulties, impaired judgment, risky behaviors (such as driving under the influence), physical and mental health issues, addiction, legal consequences, overdose and possibly even death. This demographic often faces barriers in accessing support services and resources tailored to their unique needs, underscoring the urgency for targeted prevention efforts within this age group. By addressing these gaps, the proposed project aims to enhance the overall well-being and academic success of college-enrolled students while fostering a culture of wellness and safety on campus. Addressing college student drug use and misuse requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach that takes into account the complex factors influencing substance use behaviors among this population. IT also requires collaboration among various stakeholders, including universities, colleges, community organizations, healthcare providers, law enforcement agencies, and policymakers. The BC heap consortium, with representation from all five (5) institutions, will coordinate these efforts to establish cohesive prevention initiatives across campuses, engaging student participants, faculty, staff, administration and other stakeholders in the process.