Caregiver Support for Navigating Mental Health Challenges

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers a variety of tools, support, and information to help families navigate the challenges that come along with mental health struggles.

You can explore these resources through their dedicated page for family members and caregivers: NAMI Family Support Resource.

This site provides insights into how to support your loved ones, manage stress, and access further assistance.

https://www.nami.org/your-journey/family-members-and-caregivers/

Struggling with Substance Use?

If you or someone you know is facing challenges with substance use, help is available. Please visit this resource from the Addiction and Mental Health Center for support, information, and guidance: Substance Use Resources.

You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Support is just a click away. Brochure

Crisis Resources

Maine Crisis Line: 1-888-568-1112 - The Maine Crisis Line (MCL) is the state’s crisis telephone response service for individuals or families experiencing a behavioral health crisis or having thoughts of suicide and/or self-harm. Trained crisis call specialists answer the line and provide free and confidential telephone support and stabilization 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  People can call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for themselves or if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.

Child Abuse Reporting: DHHS 1-800-452-1999 - If you are concerned about child neglect or abuse, call this 24-hour hotline to speak to a child protective specialist. Calls may be made anonymously. 

Sexual Assault Response Services 1-800-871-7741 - Call the 24-hour statewide sexual assault crisis and support line (or text Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm) for confidential services free of charge. For more information visit: www.mecasa.org.

2-1-1 Maine, Inc. Dial 211 or 1-877-463-6207 (When Out of State) - If you are not sure who to call, dial 2-1-1 to get connected to statewide services and programs.  One number - thousands of services. 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember, 24-hour number that connects people who want to give help or get help with a full range of health and human services in their community.  For more information visit: www.211maineorg.

Online Resources

Supporting Youth in Grief After a Suicide or Traumatic Loss: Opening Up the Conversation: Guide for parents/caregivers from the Maine Suicide Prevention Program

How to Explain Death to a Child, A Step-by-Step Guide: It may not be the easiest topic to discuss with young kids, but experts suggest this step-by-step advice for laying the groundwork now.

NAMI Maine (National Alliance on Mental Illness): Through support, education, and advocacy NAMI Maine is dedicated to building better lives for the 1 in 4 Mainers affected by mental illness.