GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – A new Addiction Recovery Helpline is looking to curb a concerning state trend in the number of opioid-related deaths.
According to the United Way of Wisconsin, in 2017, the number of total opioid-related deaths in the state topped the figure for car crash fatalities.
In response to this growing crisis, a new Addiction Recovery Helpline is being added to the 2-1-1 call centers throughout Wisconsin.
The 24/7 service, which is free and confidential, can be accessed by simply dialing 2-1-1 or 833-877-6743.
Officials with the United Way are hoping a new helpline will connect individuals struggling with substance dependence to possibly life-saving resources in their community.
“The specialists are trained to listen to your situation and try to make suggestions for resources in the community that would best help,” explains Marcie Waters, spokesperson with the United Way of Wisconsin.
The goal is to have these trained specialists be a trusted resource that is well-versed in their knowledge of the area, compared to being a cold and distant voice.
“So you feel like the person really knows where you’re coming from when you call,” says Waters.
There will be seven call centers for the helpline throughout the state, which will feature 65 specialty trained staff members.
“They have staff at their call centers who are specifically trained to help people with addiction and find recovery resources,” she says.
While opioid-related fatality numbers have been highlighted as an especially alarming trend, the helpline is providing service for anyone struggling with substance dependence, which could extend to methamphetamines or alcohol.
And if physically getting to any of the recommended resources is a concern for any individuals, the helpline specialists are trained to provide assistance in that area as well.
“Say you have trouble with transportation or child care, they’re trained to already be knowing about those resources within the community to kind of help you with those barriers,” says Waters.
The helpline is sponsored by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
The Brown County United Way is located in downtown Green Bay.
