AMHC Highlights Mental Health Month in May

May is Mental Health Month, and Aroostook Mental Health Services, Inc. (AMHC) is pleased to join Mental Health America in highlighting its “Back to Basics” campaign.

“The past few years have highlighted how important mental health is to overall well-being,” said Ellen Bemis, CEO. “Part of AMHC’s mission is to reduce the stigma associated with mental health. Our agency encourages all community members to know the resources available to support you or a family member in a time of need.”

There is no single cause for a mental health condition; many possible risk factors can influence how likely a person is to experience a mental health condition or how severe the symptoms may be. Mental Health America has a screening tool at https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/ which may assist an individual to better understand what one is experiencing; after that, it is important to talk to a trusted friend, family member, teacher, etc. about the results, and as appropriate seek professional help.

AMHC encourages anyone who is struggling to reach out to the resources that are available.

• Maine Crisis Line: 1-888-568-1112. Available 24/7 to call, text, or chat
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Available 24/7
• StrenthenME: 207-227-8198. Available 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. seven days a week to anyone in Maine experiencing stress reactions to the pandemic
• Maine Frontline Warmline: 207-221-8196 (Text: 898-211). Available 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. seven days a week for Maine’s health care workers, first responders, and school personnel who are experiencing stress as a result of the pandemic
• For more resources, including AMHC services county-wide, please visit www.amhc.org or call the AMHC Call Center at 1-800-244-6431.