Dealing With Opioids in Our Community

About Opioids


Opioids include common pain medications (e.g., Oxycontin, Vicodin, Percocet, etc.) and illegal drugs (e.g., Heroin), which are often abused and have become significant problems nationally, as well as in our own community.

In the state of Massachusetts, two people die each day from an accidental opioid overdose.

Community Education


The City of Lowell along with surrounding communities works to educate the community as a whole on the risks and dangers of opioid overdoses, and to prevent opioid abuse through a range of outreach and educational programs. This broad community initiative is led by the Lowell Health Department and includes active participation of local health departments, police departments, health-care organizations, non-profit organizations and educational institutions.

General Resources


Substance Abuse Resources


Do you or a loved one need help with substance abuse? Visit one of the following links to find the correct support for you and/or your family.
  • Learn To Cope - A support group for parents and family members dealing with a loved one addicted to heroin, Oxycontin and other drugs. 24/7 help.
  • Help Line Online - The Massachusetts Substance Abuse Information and Education Helpline provides free and confidential information and referrals for alcohol and other drug abuse problems and related concerns. Services are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Language interpreters are always available.
  • The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) - SAMSA was established by Congress to make substance use and mental disorder information, services and research more accessible. Their website provides extensive information, including listings of national helplines and treatment locators.
  • Turn To Help - Information about opioid dependence, benefits of treatment, and treatment options. This site has a treatment locator.
  • Massachusetts Al-Anon and Alateen - The primary purpose of Al-Anon/Alateen is to help families and friends of alcoholics. Alateen is part of Al-Anon and is for young people affected by another's drinking.
  • Narcotics Anonymous is for any addict seeking recovery, based on the AA model.
  • The Alcoholics Anonymous Central Service Committee of Eastern Mass coordinates the work of AA in Eastern MA. Their primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.
  • Lowell House Inc. - A private, non-profit agency providing comprehensive outpatient and residential addiction services.
  • Northeast Behavioural Health - Lahey Health Behavioral Services provides a range of outpatient, inpatient and residential care, including counseling clinics, addiction treatment, family services, mobile crisis teams, and school-based programs for children and teens.
  • Habit OPCO - Habit OPCO is a healthcare organization with significant experience and success in treating opiate addiction.
  • For Providers: Massachusetts Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse Services - Search a directory of Bureau of Substance Abuse Services (BSAS) Funded and Licensed programs This directory is intended for providers that need an up-to-date listing of programs and contacts.

Questions


Please feel free to contact the Health Department directly at 978-674-4304, so that we may answer any comments, questions, or concerns you may have.