If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, do you know how to direct them to resources that can help them? Unless someone confides in you, there is no simple way to know what burden those around us are carrying or how they may be struggling. Given the stigma associated with mental illness, it is likely a person will not seek help.
I recently learned someone very close to me was in crisis and had been suffering for a while. I had no idea. Not knowing what to do or how to help was difficult. Deciding to seek help for them was not an easy choice - there was anger and embarrassment. Finding good resources quickly made the difference. I want to share just a couple support programs available here in Maine that can guide anyone who might be facing a similar situation.
You know to call 911 if you or someone you know is having a medical emergency. But what if you just need to talk to someone who understands?
The HELP line is staffed 24 hours a day and you can call or text: 207-774-HELP(4357). This number is a good one to call if you’re looking to help someone you think might be having mental health issues or considering harming themselves.
Another resource I just learned about specializes in assisting young people. Anyone aged 13 – 24 can text 207-515-8398 to get support on a variety of topics. It’s available from 2 PM until 10 PM daily and is staffed by young adults aged 18 – 24.
Nationwide support is available at the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Dial or text 988 to connect with confidential support. The number 1-800-SUICIDE is now routed through the 988 crisis line.
For veterans, dial 988, press 1, or text 838255.
There is a lot of useful information at: accessmaine.org/behavioral-health/mental-health.
This is certainly not a complete list of available resources, but these are a good place to start to find out how you can help a friend or family member that may be struggling. If you think someone needs mental health support, please reach out to them.