Struggling with substance abuse? It just got easier to find help

New Jersey residents struggling with substance abuse issues have an updated tool to help them overcome their addiction.

An online referral tool that provides access to a complete database of service providers has been completely revamped, according to Ezra Helfand, the executive director of Wellspring Center for Prevention in Middlesex County.

“We think this is a very effective tool that people can use,” Helfand said, “We provide an expanded list of treatment providers, some basic information relating to the specific issue that the individual is visiting the website about, and it is available on our website, which is wellspringprevention.org.”

He says the update was made possible by the Middlesex County Board of Freeholders and the County Office of Human Services.

“We’ve made this tool more user-friendly,” he said. “It’s available for use by individuals who want to, or are seeking information and referrals by using their cell phones or tablets as well as a laptop or desktop.”

Helfand said the tool has been up and running for a few years, but says it’s been completely revamped to make it easier to use.

“We do have substance abuse issues in this state, heroin abuse issues,” he said, “And it is really important to enable individuals in the community to find easy access to referrals.”

He adds the group’s online prevention resource center has also been expanded and improved with addiction facts and information, and it also provides additional helpful links.”

The Wellspring Center for Prevention is a non-profit, community-based health organization providing prevention, education, information, and referral services to residents, businesses, schools, faith-based organizations, as well as municipal alliances and social service agencies in Middlesex County and beyond for the past 35 years.

The mission of the center is to promote the health and well-being of individuals, their families and communities through the prevention of addiction-related problems.