Google Crackdown on Treatment Facility Ads Highlights Importance of NYCDCC Members Using MEND Program for Substance Abuse Issues

September 25, 2017

A recent article in the New York Times, revealed that Google is cracking down on advertisements for treatment facilities that appear when users search for help with substance abuse. According to Google, the company has taken this step because “many online searches are leading addicts to click on ads for rehab centers that are unfit to help them or, in some cases, endangering their lives.” In an attempt to curb the amount of users who are being misled by false or exaggerated ads, Google has restricted them.

The unfortunate fact that many people looking for help with substance abuse issues are being guided toward facilities that may not be in their best interests just highlights the importance of the NYCDCC Welfare Fund’s (the “Fund”) Members Education and Network for Dependency (“MEND”) Program. The MEND Program is an internal program created by the Fund that specifically exists to help members and/or their dependents with substance abuse issues. The MEND Program provides assistance to participants and dependents in addressing substance abuse issues through the following services:

• Referrals to appropriate level of treatment including inpatient and outpatient treatment for all substances,
• Case management and Coordination of Services with outside providers,
• Supportive services, and
• Education.

Because of the MEND Program, there is no need for NYCDCC members to use Google to look for help with substance abuse issues. Instead, members and/or dependents who are struggling with substance abuse should immediately contact the MEND Program’s accredited staff by phone at (212) 366-7590 or by email at MEND@nyccbf.org. Please know that there is no shame in asking for help and that MEND’s accredited staff will be with you every step of the way to ensure that you and/or your dependents get the assistance you need.