The following is a summary of your rights as a recipient of outpatient (nonresidential) services under the Rights of Recipients of Mental Health Services.

1. Basic Rights. You have the same civil, human and legal rights, which all citizens are entitled.  You have the right to be treated with courtesy, respect and dignity.

2. Right to Confidentiality and Access to Records.  You have the right to have your records kept confidential; to be released only with your informed and signed consent.  (Specific circumstances where the agency can release or share information as described in the Rights book.)  You have the right to review your record at any reasonable time and to add written comments to clarify information you believe is inaccurate or imcomplete.

3. Right to an Individualized Treatment Service Plan.   You have the right to a written service plan, developed by you and your worker, based on your needs and goals. The plan must: be based on your actual needs, identify how a need will be met if the service is not available; include tasks to be completed and by whom; time frames for accomplishment of tasts and goals; and criteria to determine success. If you do not agree with the plan, you have the right to request and receive a second opinion. You have a right to a copy of the plan.

4. Right to Informed Consent.  No service or treatment can be provided to you against your will.  You have the right to be informed of possible risks and anticipated benefits of all services and treatment.  You may designate a representative who is authorized to help you understand and exercise your rights, help you make decisions, or to make decisions for you.  The guardian also has the right to be fully informed.

5. Right to File a Grievance and Appeal.  You have the right, without retribution, to grieve any violation of your rights or a questionable practice.  You have the right to a written response, including reasons for the decision.  You may appeal any decision to the Department of Behavioral & Developmental Services.  For assistance contact:  Office of Advocacy, 60 State House Station, Augusta, Maine 04333 (287-2205) or Disability Rights Center, P.O. Box 2007, Augusta, Maine 04330 (1-800-452-1948).

Posted on January 22, 2014by Author Katie Orffin Categories Tips for Healthy Living

Social events can be difficult to attend for some people.  They can be even more challenging to someone who is trying to cut down or quit using alcohol or drugs.  If this applies to you or someone you know, the following may be helpful:

Alcohol Alternatives – Try a refreshing non-alcoholic drink like seltzer water or club soda.  Mix furit in with these drinks, or try a sparkling grape juice or cider.  Drink a favorite non-alcoholic mixer with a garnish.  Enjoy a decaf coffee after meals.

Cravings – When a strong craving hits, eat or drink something sweet.  Sugar satisfies that part of the brain that triggers the need for alcohol or drugs such as opiates.

Parties – Have a back-up plan.  If you are going to a function that has alcohol involved, bring along a friend who is also sober for support.  Have a list of phone numbers of people you can call that understand your situation.  Plan to stay for a limited time and park where there is no chance of getting blocked in.  Take care of yourself, even if it means having to skip the party.

Stress – Get plenty of rest and quiet time.  Exercise and eat healthy.  Treat yourself to a massage or practice self-soothing activities like yoga, deep breaking or walking.  Remember, for people with substance abuse problems, alcohol and drugs can increase your stress by making you feel more depressed and tired.  Don’t jeopardize your sobriety for a few hours of socializing with friends and family.

Posted on January 22, 2014by Author Katie Orffin Categories Tips for Healthy Living