As the lyrics to Ed Sheeran’s “Gone Too Soon” played, participants stood in remembrance to those lost to the opioid epidemic. Held in their hands were black and white balloons.
Black symbolized lives cut too short by substance abuse. White represented the hope still living in the hearts of their loved ones.
It was a powerful time of reflection and refocus. Held during the Board of Commissioners meeting at Town Hall in Nutley, this Black Balloon Day presentation aimed to raise awareness about opioid addiction in New Jersey and reduce stigma associated with substance use disorders.
The event was just one of the ways the town of Nutley addresses drug addiction and supports recovery.
They also offer an array of inpatient and outpatient programs that can assist anyone with substance use disorder. Explore alcohol and drug addiction treatment centers in New Jersey.
Black Balloon Day Raises Addiction Awareness
Observed on March 6, Black Balloon Day is a day of remembrance to honor loved ones lost to overdose.
Established in 2015 by Diane and Lauren Hurley in memory of family member Greg Tremblay, the initiative has grown into a national observance that brings people together to not only remember, but to act.
It encourages people to reflect on how we can support those currently with drug and alcohol addictions and impacted family members as well.
“There is no one anywhere in the world who is immune from drug abuse,” noted Commissioner Maura Tucci. With all community members on board, everyone can work toward solutions to save lives.
Addiction Can Affect Any Family
Supporting the Black Balloon tribute in Nutley were officials from the Department of Public Affairs and Health.
Commissioner Alphones Petracco observed, “It’s easy for us—who are blessed, who have never had an addiction—to pass judgment, but until you’re watching it affect your own household, you really don’t know.”
Indeed, many households are taken by surprise as addictions escalate quickly from drug use to drug abuse. Petracco noted, “But as my mother used to say, where there’s life, there’s hope.”
And that hope is exactly what Black Balloon Day participants want to provide. Public observances like Black Balloon Day can encourage people to recognize the signs of addiction and take the first step toward treatment.
Finding Drug and Alcohol Treatment
The event in Nutley speaks to the wide range of addiction care available in New Jersey. Search addictions.com’s directory to find drug and alcohol treatment near you or dial
800-681-1058
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