Prevention Pulse

Promoting healthier communities.

Brought to you by Wellspring Center for Prevention.

October 16, 2026

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Addiction News & Policy Updates

Stay informed with the latest in addiction, recovery, and substance misuse from across the nation. We curate a selection of impactful articles that highlight key developments and insights in this critical field.

1. Elizabeth Leaves 90% of Opioid Settlement Money Unspent as Addiction Crisis Demands Action

Elizabeth, New Jersey, has left approximately $1.46 million of its opioid settlement funding unspent and uncommitted, representing more than 90% of the funds received, according to municipal financial disclosures. Although the city has supported youth prevention education, overdose outreach, and other initiatives, the remaining funds have raised questions about how quickly communities are translating settlement dollars into prevention, treatment, and recovery services. (Source: NJTODAY.NEWS)

2. CVS Agrees to Pay $315 Million to Settle Case Over Opioid Prescriptions

CVS Pharmacy and several subsidiaries have agreed to pay $315 million to resolve federal allegations that the company unlawfully dispensed opioid prescriptions without legitimate medical justification. CVS disputes the allegations and admits no wrongdoing under the settlement, which also requires additional safeguards to ensure controlled substances are dispensed appropriately. (Source: Associated Press via ABC News)

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3. HHS Recommends Science-Based Thresholds to Target Dangerous Enhanced Kratom Products

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has recommended new federal thresholds to distinguish concentrated kratom-related opioid compounds from naturally occurring botanical kratom. The proposal would help the Drug Enforcement Administration target products containing elevated levels of 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and mitragynine pseudoindoxyl (MGPI), substances associated with serious risks of dependence and other opioid-related harms. (Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services)

4. Prevalence of Frequent Mental Distress and Physical Inactivity Among Adults Aged 18–29 Years — United States, 2012–2024

A new CDC analysis found that frequent mental distress among U.S. adults ages 18 to 29 increased from 12.7% in 2012 to 21.3% in 2024, despite improvements in the most recent years studied. Researchers also identified a modest long-term increase in physical inactivity, emphasizing opportunities for community programs that combine physical activity, social connection, and mental health support. (Source: CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report)

5. Asbury Park Police Department Wants Your Unused Prescription Drugs, No Questions Asked

The Asbury Park Police Department is encouraging residents to turn in unused prescription medications as part of an effort to promote safe disposal and reduce the risks associated with medication misuse. The initiative highlights the role of community-based prevention in keeping potentially harmful medications out of the wrong hands and protecting households from accidental exposure. (Source: TAPinto Asbury Park)

OCT

Wednesday, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Renewal Training: Societal Issues that Impact Substance Use – 6 CEUs

Explore how substance use affects crime, families, education, and the economy, and how society responds in this CADC renewal training.

Read The Latest From Our Blog

The Importance of Prevention Education in Schools

Prevention education in schools equips students with essential life skills, fostering informed decision-making and resilience to address challenges like substance misuse and mental health issues.

Start With Hello Week at Carteret Junior High School

Carteret Junior High School celebrated Start With Hello Week with activities promoting kindness, empathy, inclusion, and stronger student connections.

Gentle Parenting vs. Permissive Parenting: What’s the Difference?

Learn the difference between gentle and permissive parenting, and how warmth, boundaries, and consistency can support healthy child development.

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Wellspring Center for Prevention is a private nonprofit agency serving the community members and organizations of Middlesex and Monmouth Counties. We are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities through our quality prevention and early intervention services. Our programs promote sound mental health, effective family functioning, and awareness of the devastating effects of substance misuse and dependency.

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