Get involved

People throughout Massachusetts are working to prevent and treat substance use disorder through community coalitions and task forces. Find your local group.

Many people in recovery, and those who care about them, are active in the recovery community. The Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery (MOAR) is made up of hundreds of people in recovery and those who support them. Other groups and organizations provide support to members and are active in their communities.

Anyone can spread the word about the Helpline and our services. Give the Helpline phone number and web link to anyone in need and encourage them to use it:

800.327.5050
HelplineMA.org

Order Helpline wallet cards here and share in your community.

Helpline Champions are volunteers across Massachusetts who distribute Helpline materials and talk about the Helpline with their networks. Contact us if you’d like to learn more about becoming a Helpline Champion.

Student internships might also be available. Contact us if you’re interested.

You can take simple actions to help prevent substance use disorder. You can model healthy behaviors by avoiding or drinking alcohol moderately, and using prescription medications only as prescribed.

Another very important way to prevent substance use disorder is to safely use, store, and get rid of unused prescription drugs. This helps to ensure that drugs aren’t misused or get into the wrong hands. Keep prescription drugs out of reach, such as in a locked cabinet. Check your medication supply regularly.

To get rid of prescription drugs, the best option is to leave them at a prescription dropbox location. Find locations here. If you are going to throw out medication, the FDA recommends that some medications be flushed down the toilet because they can be dangerous to children, pets, and anyone other than the person on the prescription. Another option includes throwing prescription drugs in the trash. If you throw drugs in the trash, be sure to:

1. Leave medications in their original container
2. Leave medication names visible but cross out personal information
3. For pills, dissolve them with some water or soda
4. For liquids, add cat litter, coffee grounds, or dirt
5. Close containers with tape
6. Hide medications in the trash

Parents and caregivers play an important role in protecting young people from alcohol and other drugs. Learn more about steps you can take to communicate with and help your children stay healthy.