Substance Use/Opioid Treatment
Youth Peer Support Statewide Network
Youth Peer Support Statewide Network now accepting referrals for youth peer support!
Maine Behavioral Healthcare was awarded a new contract with the State of Maine to develop a Youth Peer Support Statewide Network (YPSSN). This program offers anyone in the state of Maine who is between the ages of 14 and 26 access to a variety of peer support opportunities. The contract officially began in February of this year and we are already offering a number of activities for Maine’s youth and young adults who are struggling or have struggled with their mental health, which may include substance use. There is no insurance needed, no diagnosis required, and no cost.
The YPSSN has youth peer support staff in Portland, Lewiston and Bangor primarily. We also will have staff in Piscataquis, Aroostook, and Penobscot Counties offering support to youth and young adults on waitlists for behavioral health services. Again, this is a statewide program, so youth and young adults from across Maine can access virtual and in-person activities.
The YPSSN is now accepting referrals for 1-1 youth peer support statewide! And there’s more:
- Providing virtual and in-person one-on-one youth peer support. Electronic/online referral form located here: YPSSN Referral Form
- Two virtual youth peer support groups. You can access the flyers here: Groups & Events at YPSSN
- Youth advisory board (virtual): Youth and young adults 14-26 can help develop the YPSSN, which is a youth-directed program. Their time on the advisory board is compensated. Interested youth can contact us at YPSSN@mainehealth.org for more information.
- Job openings: Lewiston and Bangor locations as well as Piscataquis and Penobscot County-level positions can be found at Youth Peer Support Partner Job List
- Website launched: Our website is here, in case you want to learn more about the YPSSN activities.
Resources
Maine.gov - Division of Disease Prevention: Maine Prevention Network
SAMHSA
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- Talk. They Hear You. - Parent & Caregiver Resources
Start Your Recovery
- StartYourRecovery.org
- Find local support and treatment options in Maine https://startyourrecovery.org/treatment/rehab-centers/maine
- Hear stories from other parents
- Learn about recognizing and dealing with substance use disorder
Rehab.com: Augusta, ME Drug & Alcohol Rehab Centers
How to Talk to Your Kids About Drugs and Alcohol:
https://www.healthychildren.or...
Substance Use among adolescents
https://www.healthychildren.or...
Teen Mental Health: How to Know When Your Child Needs Help