Mental Health in Maine
According to recent data from the National Association on Mental Illness (NAMI), more than 200,000 Maine residents are living with some form of mental health condition. This includes more than 60,000 adults who have been diagnosed with serious mental illness (SMI).
But despite the urgent need for consistent, affordable, and accessible mental health care across the state, many Mainers languish untreated. According to NAMI estimates, over a quarter of Mainers experiencing mental illness do not receive care, whether due to insufficient health insurance coverage or a lack of qualified mental healthcare providers in their communities.
The cost of care is among the most significant barriers to treatment for Maine residents, with nearly half of those who go untreated citing finances as the primary reason why. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Resources are available across the state to help Mainers receive the care they need at low or no cost. Options range from private and public grants to pro bono healthcare providers.
200,000
Maine residents living with mental illness
60,000
Adults in Maine diagnosed with a serious mental illness
Free Mental Health Resources in Maine
The Behavioral Health Network of Catholic Charities Maine offer a range of services to support mental health and substance use recovery. Their programs are free to low cost and include counseling, case management and community outreach. They provide compassionate care for individuals and families in need.
Maine Queer Health provides essential healthcare services tailored to the LGBTQ+ community. They focus on inclusivity and cultural competence. Their programs include mental health support, sexual health services and health education. They have a statewide online directory that connects members of the LGBTQ+ community to inclusive and affirming mental health care.
Northern Light Health – LGBTQ+ Families and Allies offers supportive services for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. Their programs include healthcare, counseling and education. You will have access to clinicians and support groups that are focused on affirming care navigation, mental health and identity support.
OUT Maine provides free mental health resources support for LGBTQ+ youth and their families. Their programs include peer support groups, resources for schools and family counseling. They also offer suicide prevention initiatives. An inclusive environment has been created to reduce stigma and empower LGBTQ+ individuals.
The Community Caring Collaborative (CCC Maine) connects individuals and families to vital community resources. Their programs focus on supporting those facing mental health and trauma. Their services are focused on individuals in the Washington County.
Disability Rights Maine advocates for the rights of individuals with disabilities. They provide free legal advocacy, supportive services and educations. Their programs address mental health rights and discrimination as well as abuse. Their goal is empower people with disabilities by promoting independence, self advocacy and equal opportunities across Maine.
Maine Access Points connects individuals who have been affected by substance use disorders to essential services in their local area. Their programs offer personalized assistance to help individuals navigate resources and access the care they need.
Spring Harbor Hospital is a non profit psychiatric hospital that provides comprehensive mental health services. They offer inpatient care services to children and adults. The facility is able to house 100 beds and includes specialized programs. Their services include therapy, medication management and crisis intervention.
Sweetser provides a wide range of mental health and addiction services across Maine. Their programs include crisis intervention, substance use treatment and support. They also provide counseling and community based programs for children and adults. Peer support is also available.
NAMI Maine provides services to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. The programs include peer support groups, educational resources and family assistance. Their goal is to connect individuals and families to the mental health services they need for better overall well being.
The Stay: Man-to-Man Peer Support Group offers a safe space for men to connect. They provide a free peer led support group to help men navigate mental health struggles. Men will be able to share experiences and provide mutual support in overcoming challenges related to mental health, addiction and life struggles. They provide in person and virtual formats.
The Maine Department of Health and Human Services provides behavioral health services. A range of services are offered that focus on mental health and substance use recovery. Programs include counseling, crisis intervention and long term support for individuals and families.
211 Maine connects individuals to critical community resources and services. They provide assistance with housing, healthcare and food. Their helpline provides 24/7 confidential support. The helpline also helps individuals navigate challenges and find the services they need.
Maine Intentional Warm Line offers non crisis peer support to individuals facing mental health challenges. You will have to be 18 years of age and older to access these services. Trained peer specialists provide a listening ear and offer guidance, encouragement and resources.
The Maine Crisis Line provides 24/7 confidential support to individuals experiencing a mental health crises. Trained counselors offer immediate assistance, de-escalation and resources to help people in distress. The service aims to connect callers with the appropriate care. The counselors ensure you receive timely support to navigate difficult moments with compassion and understanding.