Announcing New Tobacco Treatment Resources: 
Support for Behavioral Health Agencies and Clients
Free Continuing Education Training:
Opportunities for Change: Addressing Tobacco and Nicotine Use in Behavioral Health Settings
Research shows that providing tobacco treatment in the behavioral health setting is critically important for improving the health outcomes of this population. Join other behavioral health professionals and the MaineHealth Center for Tobacco Independence Training and Education team for a new virtual training to learn more about the health burden of tobacco and nicotine on individuals with behavioral health conditions.

This training will support Behavioral Health Professionals in various ways including: :
  1. Enhancing existing skills to utilize low barrier strategies that will support patients in reducing their use or quitting use of various products. 
  2. Increasing understanding of the health burden of tobacco and nicotine on individuals with behavioral health conditions. 
  3. Discussing real and perceived barriers to providing treatment in mental health and substance use settings. 
  4. Increasing understanding of services targeted to this population through the Maine Tobacco HelpLine. 

Training Dates:
May 12, 13, 19, 20 from 9-10:30am

Up to 4 CMEs will be offered for this training, you must complete the May 12, 13 and 19 sessions to receive CMEs. Additional information about the training is available on CTIMaine.org.
New Maine Tobacco HelpLine Service:
Intensive Behavioral Health Coaching Program
Behavioral Health Professionals can increase patient success in becoming tobacco-free by connecting them to the Maine Tobacco HelpLine’s intensive Behavioral Health Coaching Program. Tobacco users are 2-3 times more likely to quit with the support of the HelpLine than when they try it alone. 

This new program is tailored to meet the needs of tobacco users with a behavioral health condition. The program includes:
  • 7 proactive calls from a Quit Coach, unlimited inbound call support.
  • Quit Coaches trained in the specific challenges faced by tobacco users with a behavioral health condition.
  • 12 weeks of combination nicotine replacement therapy (patch +gum or patch+lozenge) sent directly to the person’s home in three, four week shipments.
  • Letter sent to the participant’s provider outlining the importance of supporting the patient in quitting tobacco.
  • Ability to opt into standard text, email and web portal services.

Individuals can access services by calling 1-800-207-1230, visiting TheQuitLink.com or through provider referral.
Free Policy Change Resource:
Tobacco-Free Behavioral Health Policy Toolkit
Implementing a tobacco-free policy and providing screening and treatment for tobacco use at Behavioral Health facilities will support clients to make quit attempts as well as protect all members of the organization community from the dangers of secondhand and thirdhand smoke.

Through CTI's Breathe Easy Initiative, a new policy toolkit has been developed to support organizations in creating tobacco-free policies. The toolkit includes a variety of template and support materials:
  • Policy Language
  • Proposed Implementation Timeline
  • Enforcement Recommendations
  • Template Frequently Asked Questions
  • Communication Templates

Policy change technical assistance is available through the District Tobacco Prevention Partners and behavioral health organizations can receive recognition for addressing tobacco use and exposure through the annual Breathe Easy Gold Star Standards of Excellence Program.