Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers in Maine
In 2016, Maine became one of only 5 states to receive an award of distinction from the National Safety Council (NSC) for its public policies and progress in combating opioid addiction. In 2017, Maine’s Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHS) reported the state has 78 licensed agencies providing substance abuse services in 376 locations. Maine is an excellent place for those to looking for help overcoming addiction.
Maine Substance Abuse Statistics
Maine’s statistics on substance abuse are among the most thorough and complete of the 50 states, primarily because a State Epidemiology Outcomes Workshop (SEOW) began in 2011. SEOW covers indicators and outcomes for all age categories, men and women, types of substances, co-occurring disorders, and special needs. Here are some significant findings:
- More than 13% of young Maine adults ages 18-25 were reported as dependent on or abusing alcohol in 2015.
- 26-35 year-olds and 18-25 year-olds have high rates of binge drinking compared to other age groups.
- Four out of five overdose deaths were caused by illicit drugs between 2013 and 2015, which were mostly attributed to fentanyl.
- The most common single substance used by people seeking residential treatment in 2016 was alcohol (37%), but heroin, prescription opioids, and synthetic opioids (fentanyl) together added up to 52% of admissions for residential treatment.
- Slightly over half, or 51%, of Maine residents seeking substance abuse treatment, also had co-occurring mental health disorders.
Choosing The Right Rehab Program In Maine
Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has a strong, evidence-based approach to monitoring and supporting drug and alcohol treatment programs. Facilities and programs are not only licensed by the state, but also receive direct funding, monitoring, and support. When choosing a rehabilitation program in Maine, you should consider the following:
- Accreditation: Substance abuse treatment centers are accredited by either the Joint Commission, the Commission on the Accreditation of Rehab Facilities (CARF), or will be licensed and certified by Maine’s DHHS.
- Evidence-Based Approaches: Most of Maine’s rehab programs use evidence-based therapy, medical treatment, and residential treatment models. Evidence-based approaches have been analyzed for effectiveness by medical and psychological professionals, with results published in peer-reviewed medical or behavioral health journals.
- Length/Location: Residential treatment programs in Maine range from short-term 28 days to 6-week stays, to long-term 6 to 9-month programs and 1 to 2-year transitional programs. Be prepared to travel to a different area of Maine, or another state, to access the program that’s right for you.
- Aftercare And Alumni Services: The majority of Maine’s drug and alcohol treatment programs offer intensive outpatient programs, counseling, and 12-step and community-based sobriety support following program completion.
- Payment: Maine directly funds substance abuse treatment and many programs accept Medicaid and provide court-ordered services. You may choose between private-pay, private insurance, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), Veterans programs (Tricare and VA), and charitable programs with fees based on the ability to pay.
Maine Drug And Alcohol Rehab Services
In 2016, about 10,000 people sought treatment for drug and alcohol use disorders in Maine. Common substance abuse rehabilitation services within the state include:
- Drug and Alcohol Detox Programs: Medically-supervised programs which help people overcome withdrawal symptoms when they cease alcohol or drugs. Detox programs in Maine may assist with symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, prescription drug withdrawal, and opioid withdrawal, including heroin.
- Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT): Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) provides daily doses of FDA-approved medication to individuals seeking to recover from specific substances, particularly opioids. Maine has funded 7,000 spaces for MAT throughout the state.
- Behavioral Therapy: Behavioral therapy includes evidence-based approaches for individual and group counseling, along with support groups. Maine’s programs include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, 12-step programs, and Acceptance-Commitment Therapy (ACT).
- Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders (Dual Diagnosis): Maine provides funds for beds in residential and outpatient programs providing services to people with co-occurring disorders. Individuals in the justice system may be served by the Maine Co-Occurring Disorders and Veterans Court, which provides treatment and case management instead of incarceration.
Finding Addiction Treatment
Maine 211 offers resources and information for all of the state’s substance abuse services, from support groups and relapse prevention to detox and residential treatment and re-entry programs. Be willing to get on the phone, ask questions, and travel wherever is necessary to find the best option for you or your loved one.
Maine Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services - Substance Abuse Data Dashboard
National Institute on Drug Abuse - Maine Opioid Summary