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The relationship between @maineems first responders and OPTIONS Liaisons is a cornerstone of the OPTIONS initiative. By working together, we're able to reduce harm, reverse overdoses, and restore hope in the lives of people who use drugs. Today and yesterday, Liaisons joined Maine's EMS community at the Augusta Civic Center for Maine EMS's “Empowering Community Wellness” conference, sponsored by the Maine Community Paramedic program and the Systems of Care Program. This was a great opportunity to meet other EMS partners including clinicians, healthcare leaders, and more, and to get Naloxone and educational materials into the hands of paramedicine providers who can use them to save lives in Maine. (Pictured: Cumberland County Liaison Tom MacElhaney, manning the OPTIONS table!)

Having naloxone on hand can save a life. Get familiar with overdose risk factors, the signs of an overdose, and how to respond.

“I know it’s really hard. You just have to love them. So they know it.” -Shelley Yankowsky These words may be a mother’s intuition, but they’re also backed by science: having a support system vastly increases a person’s tendency to seek recovery and to make healthier choices during times of active drug use. Learn more on our page for friends, family, and allies.

Today is National Fentanyl Awareness Day. 42% of American adults know someone who died from an overdose, and with fentanyl mixed into drugs ranging from heroin to cocaine to fake pills, that percentage is only growing. The only way to reverse a fentanyl overdose is with Naloxone. Naloxone is simple to use, and your choice to keep it on hand could save someone’s life. Learn where to find Naloxone in Maine on our Naloxone page.

In 2024, there is a new drug talk to be had.

Fentanyl caused 78% of Maine drug deaths in 2023. But it usually doesn’t act alone. Deaths involving stimulants like cocaine and meth are on the rise, with hidden fentanyl to blame. People taking any type of street drug should be aware and prepared for fentanyl poisoning. Carry naloxone, never use alone, and learn more about the situation on our fentanyl page.

“The whole point of OPTIONS is to keep people alive … things can get better, and you can live a good life.” -Dave Bilodeau, OPTIONS liaison for Androscoggin County Dave is here to connect people with substance use disorders with local resources that can help them stay safe, so they can get well - whether that means safer use, treatment, recovery, or just someone to listen. To find your local liaison, visit our liaison page.

Naloxone can reverse an opioid overdose and is simple to use. An accidental overdose can happen to anyone taking an opioid. Your decision to keep Naloxone on hand could save their life. Find free naloxone near you by reaching out to your OPTIONS Liaison or visiting the naloxone page on our website.