Thank you @GovJanetMills for recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month 2024! Shout out to all ofthe MH providers offering services across Maine. Mental Health Awareness Month in Maine: to shine a light on mental illness and the need for long-term improvements in our mental health care system and increased access to care for all so no one feels alone. ... Read More ›

The morning fog lifts beyond the Burton M. Cross Building, left, and the State House on June 21, 2023, in Augusta. Credit: Robert F. Bukaty / AP The BDN Editorial Board operates independently from the newsroom, and does not set policies or contribute to reporting or editing articles elsewhere in the newspaper or on bangordailynews.com. A collection of bills that could make needed improvements to Maine’s broad mental health care system are at risk of languishing in Augusta because of a lack ... Read More ›

https://www.bangordailynews.com/2024/04/11/opinion/opinion-contributor/human-cost-neglected-mental-health-services-joam40zk0w/ ... Read More ›

"The need for investment in Maine's mental health care system is clear and urgent. We urge the governor and the Legislature to act now by funding the Maine Resiliency package of bills and prioritizing the mental health and well-being of all Mainers."   Malory Shaughnessy and Elizabeth Sweet Maine is facing a crisis in mental health care. The evidence is overwhelming, and the voices calling for change are growing louder.The message is clear: we must prioritize funding ... Read More ›

Mental health investments should not be a partisan issue. I’ve worked for decades in the behavioral health field, both before and during my time serving the people of Waterville in the Legislature. I’ve been a case manager, worked in group homes and worked as a clinician on an Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) team. I’ve worked in partial hospitalization programs and intensive outpatient programs. I’ve also provided therapy in offices, our local schools and in the homes of our ... Read More ›

The Maine State House is seen at sunrise, March 16, 2023, in Augusta, Maine. Credit: Robert F. Bukaty / AP The BDN Opinion section operates independently and does not set news policies or contribute to reporting or editing articles elsewhere in the newspaper or on bangordailynews.com Julie M. Schirmer is a licensed clinical social worker and president of the board of directors for the Maine Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers. As a clinical social worker, one would ... Read More ›

Providers and advocates point to legislative solutions to address persistent underfunding and worker shortages BY: EVAN POPP - NOVEMBER 15, 2023 5:21 AM  There are numerous bills passed by the legislature that have yet to receive funding that advocates say would shore up the state’s mental health system. (Getty Images) Maine’s mental health care system is fractured and scattered, with chronic underfunding and gaps in services that prevent many from accessing the care ... Read More ›

By Mary Kekatos November 10, 2023, 5:11 AM Click here for full article People gather at a vigil in Lisbon, Maine, for the victims of this week's mass shootings, Oct. 28, 2023. Matt Rourke/AP In the more than two weeks since a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, occurred at a bowling alley and local bar and restaurant, questions have swirled about mental health care in the state. The alleged gunman displayed glaring signals that his mental health was declining, ... Read More ›

Our hearts go out to all those impacted by the tragedy that occurred in Lewiston yesterday, and to all of those continuing to work to bring this situation to a close. As providers of behavioral health care services across the state of Maine, the members of the Alliance want to make sure that people understand that resources are available to all those in need of support, reassurance, guidance, and direct care. It is not uncommon for individuals and communities as a whole to experience grief ... Read More ›