OPTIONS (Overdose Prevention Through Intensive Outreach, Naloxone, and Safety) initiative at Sweetser is a partnership with the Maine Office of Behavioral Health to improve the health of Mainers who use substances by using harm reduction strategies, supporting recovery, and providing referrals for services.
As part of the program, Sweetser has licensed behavioral health clinicians who work with law enforcement agencies, emergency services, and community partners to:
- Engage in post-overdose follow-up and help with referrals.
- Conduct community outreach.
- De-escalate behavioral health crises when possible.
- Provide short-term counseling interventions when needed.
- Distribute Naloxone.
The OPTIONS Initiative aims to:
- Improve understanding of the Good Samaritan Law and increase calls to 9-1-1 for medical assistance for overdose emergencies.
- Increase the distribution and availability of lifesaving Naloxone across Maine.
- Educate at-risk populations on safer drug use practices that reduce the risk of both fatal and non-fatal overdose.
- Connect people affected by opioid epidemic with local prevention, harm reduction, recovery, treatment, and general support resources.
Maine’s Good Samaritan Law: The LD 329 Act exempts persons reporting a drug-related medical emergency from criminal liability.
Learn more at Know Your OPTIONS.