The prevalence of issues such as underage drinking, binge drinking across various age groups, and the misuse of prescription opiates is a notable concern within Ocean County, where Cape Coral is situated. In this county, there is a significant focus on the problem of drug-related challenges among young individuals on probation, with nearly 10% more of them reporting drug problems compared to the average in the state of New Jersey. This concern regarding youth drinking becomes evident from statistics showing that 39% of young people apprehended in Ocean County confess to using alcohol, in contrast to the statewide rate of 31%.
Predictably, alcohol stands out as the most common substance leading adults to seek treatment for addiction when they enter addiction treatment facilities. While alcoholism is not frequently observed among young men, initiating alcohol consumption at an early age stands out as one of the most evident risk factors contributing to the development of alcohol-related issues later in life. As the second most commonly encountered addiction in rehabilitation centers, heroin presents a significant challenge for adults residing in Ocean County.
- The initial half of 2018 witnessed a total of 101 reported fatalities
- the impact of fentanyl-related deaths was felt across four districts in New Jersey.