Depression is an extremely prevalent mental illness in the US. More than 25 million Americans age twelve or older will suffer at least one episode of depression every year – nearly 20% of that population group. This is according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Put simply, one out of every five Americans age 12 and up suffers from depression or has at least once in the past year.
However, when analyzing data on depression by state provided publicly by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it becomes clear that Maine has a significant depression issue. Out of all fifty states, Maine has the 3rd highest rate of diagnosed depression with 23.52% of residents suffering.
The good news is that help is available to you, free and confidential help, around the clock. Here are three helplines any Maine resident can call to receive assistance for depression. Call today and start down a path toward helping yourself, or helping someone you know.
The National Depression Hotline
Anybody anywhere can call 866-629-4564 to reach a specialist with The National Depression Helpline. It’s a free, confidential, around-the-clock helpline for depression and/or anxiety. Call now for immediate assistance, or click here to visit the website which offers a wealth of additional information and resources. When you’re ready, we’re here to listen.
The Maine Crisis Line
Residents can call 888-568-1112 anytime to reach a professional with Maine’s Behavioral Health Crisis Services System. The call is free and confidential, and has been offered to Maine residents since 1970. The crisis line is sponsored by The Opportunity Alliance, and you can click here to visit the TOA website which offers more info, resources, and an online chat option.
NAMI HelpLine
The National Alliance on Mental Illness offers a helpline for all US residents to receive assistance for depression and/or any form of mental issue. Call 800-950-6264 from Monday to Friday, 10AM to 10PM, or text “HelpLine” to 62640. You may also visit the Maine-specific NAMI website, which offers a wealth of info, by clicking here.