Overdoses have typically been thought of as an issue in men. However, the latest research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that the gap is closing. The most recent report (linked here) showed that middle-aged women, in particular, are now increasingly affected by the opioid epidemic. The report highlighted that drug overdose deaths have increased in women ages 30-64 by 260% from 1999 to 2017. This number included both prescription painkillers – such as OxyContin (oxycodone) and Vicodin (hydrocodone) – as well as illegal and synthetic opioids like heroin and fentanyl. However, the death rate from the illegal opioids rose in middle-aged women the most, with deaths from fentanyl increasing by 1,634% and from heroin by 915%.

Maine was one of 10 states chosen to participate in the Maternal Opioid Misuse (MOM) model to increase access to high-quality treatment by creating a statewide system under MaineCare for women with Opioid Use Disorder and their infants. For more information, click the button below or call 1-888-644-1130. In addition, the Mother to Baby website offers information on different types of medications a mother may be taking before or during pregnancy and their effects on the baby (linked here).

Whether you have bought a new home or are looking for lead hazards in between tenants, these are a few places where lead paint hazards may be more prevalent.

• Lead paint is found mainly on windows and doors or any surface where two things rub against each other.  The friction can cause lead dust.  
• The exterior of buildings includes porches, stairs, and railings, and lead hazards can even be found in the soil directly around the home. 

Consider planting shrubs near the building to block young children from playing in the area.  Lead paint is typically not found on walls in rooms outside kitchens and bathrooms, and it is not traditionally found on ceilings unless they are made of tin or wood.  Lead paint in good condition is usually not considered a lead hazard.  Paint that is chipping, peeling, flaking, or covered with a dust residue may be a lead hazard and needs to be addressed.  To view all educational videos on simple ways to prevent lead, visit CHCC’s webpage (linked here).  For additional information on lead, visit the Maine CDC webpage (linked here) or the City of Biddeford webpage (linked here). 

In Maine, less than half of our youth feel like they matter in their communities and are more likely to suffer from mental health problems or turn to unhealthy behaviors. Partnering with the Choose to Be Healthy Coalition, join psychologist Dr. Gordon Flett from York University in Toronto to understand why youth mattering is different from self-esteem and how the trap of perfectionism can lead to depression and anxiety. Dr. Flett is a recognized expert on mattering and perfectionism and how both affect youth's mental and physical health in vitally important, but different, ways.  

This full-time Project Coordinator will facilitate and implement community-based substance misuse prevention strategies on behalf of the Project Alliance Coalition, including training, coalition communication, data collection, and information dissemination. This position is also responsible for performing administrative functions for the Coalition including tracking expenses, organizing and scheduling events, and completing donor-required reporting. Must be able to work independently and monitor the progress of multiple work projects simultaneously. Possible option for a 10-month (Sept-June) flex schedule. 

Apex Youth Connection offers an exciting array of weekly, cost-effective adventure camps for rising 5th through 8th graders, running weekdays June 13 - August 18, rain or shine, from 9am to 4pm. Camp meets at Apex HQ in Biddeford and includes full-day outdoor activities like skill-building, team building, and active adventures. 

Area families can register on a weekly basis, choosing from five different types of adventures including Rock Climbing, Cycling/Mountain Biking, Kayaking, Wilderness Skills, and Adventure Sampler. The “Sampler” session combines a variety of adventures including hiking, biking, rock climbing, wilderness, and kayaking. Thanks to the generous support of donors, Apex offers $160 weekly tuition for its camps (a $375 value) with additional assistance and late pick-up available. Register at apexyouthconnection.org or for more information, call Program Director Phil Bailey at 207-282-9700 Ext. 3.

Coastal Healthy Communities Coalition

207-602-3551

chcc@une.edu

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