Official Site of The State of New Jersey
In this episode of CRC High Points, Toni-Anne Blake, communications director at the NJ-CRC, sits down with Diane Litterer, CEO and executive director of the New Jersey Prevention Network (NJPN). With more than 35 years of experience in addiction prevention, Diane shares research-backed strategies for keeping young people informed and empowered to make healthy choices, The conversation covers how to talk to kids and teens about cannabis, why age-specific messaging matters, and how NJPN’s prevention tools are helping families and communities discourage underage use through education, communication, and access to resources.
Previous Blog Posts
Tips for SMART Gatherings This Holiday Season
11/26/2025
The holidays are a time for food, fun, laughter, and connecting with the people who make life sweeter. And as more adults in New Jersey choose to enjoy, or gift legal cannabis during the season, the NJ-CRC has launched its second safe-use campaign, S.M.A.R.T., to help keep celebrations (relatively) stress-free. S.M.A.R.T. is an easy way to remember the basics of responsible cannabis use, especially when travel is constant, roads are chaotic, homes are busy, and curious little ones are wandering.
Cannabis and PTSD
09/23/2025
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can happen after someone has lived through distressing or life-threatening events. People with PTSD may have disturbing flashbacks, nightmares, or be overly guarded. It can cause trouble sleeping, mood swings, or disruptions to daily life. This mental health condition is the third most common condition participants in New Jersey’s Medicinal Cannabis Program are treating with cannabis Many patients, including veterans, turn to cannabis when other treatments are not enough or don't work.
Safe use, smart storage: Preventing cannabis poisoning with NJ Poison Control
09/5/2025
In this episode of High Points, Danielle Bartsche, MPH, BS, CHES, who focuses on epidemiology and community outreach for the New Jersey Poison Control Center, discusses how cannabis poisoning can affect adults, children, and pets, what symptoms to look out for, and what steps to take if an overdose is suspected. Danielle also highlights how New Jersey’s packaging requirements, consumer education, and the availability of Poison Control support are helping to reduce risks and promote responsible cannabis use.
