Heroin killed 378 people in Maine last year. Meet 60 of them.

Readers react to series exploring Maine’s heroin crisis

Several who commented or emailed said members of their family could have been included in the 10-part series on opioid addiction.

Lives lost: A songwriter, a proud Boy Scout, a pizza delivery woman, a grandfather

In fight against opioids, prevention’s crucial but often overlooked

Advocates say more study and more investment are needed to stop heroin and other addictive drugs from ever taking hold.

Waking up: As state response lags, communities step up to fight addiction

Police departments, churches, health care institutions and municipalities recognize the need to invest in a remedy to the opioid crisis. Slowly, even the government is coming around.

Opioid addiction is different for women

Here’s why: • Women use substances differently than men, and can become addicted while using smaller amounts of certain drugs for less time. • Sex hormones can make women more sensitive than men to the effects of some drugs. Women may have more drug cravings and may be more likely to relapse after treatment. • Women who use […]

Lives lost: A homemaker, a Preble Street caseworker, a marathon runner, a class clown

Women in peril: Female addicts face distinct – and deadly – disadvantages

With fewer institutional resources and a greater biological threat, women entangled in the opioid epidemic must overcome gender-specific hurdles to recovery, including child-care considerations, social pressures and stigma often complicated by the specter of sexual trauma.

Lives lost: A lobsterman, a stepfather, a NASCAR fan, a former Marine

Trapped by heroin: Lobster industry struggles with its deadly secret

Maine lobstermen are plagued by opioid addiction, leading to deaths, ruined lives and even fishing violations to pay for the habit. Some in recovery also recognize the challenge: Getting help to an intensely independent breed that rarely asks for it.