NAMI Maine Has A New “Teen Text Support Line”

According to News Center Maine, the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI), has set up a Teen Text Support Line for young Mainers struggling with isolation and anxiety in the environment caused by COVID-19.

Even before the pandemic, Maine had one of the highest rates of depression and anxiety, according to the News Center Maine article. The Maine Crisis Line has been overwhelmed, as have teachers and parents.

The new line is for Mainers aged 14-20 and is open from noon to 10 p.m. 7 days a week. The Teen Text Support Line number is 207-515-TEXT (8398).

Many young Mainers are dealing with a lot of disappointment attached to being out of school and unable to connect with friends regularly.

• Some kids are missing the daily support of school staff and teachers.
• Some children are living in unstable homes with no relief from the situation.
• It's stressful for kids to see their parents out of work and worried about money.
• Kids might worry about the health of family members.
• Not only have students had to adapt to a new remote learning system, but they have missed much anticipated rights of passage and benchmarks in their development as young adults.
• Children might have anxiety about the virus itself; wondering when and if it will end and if they'll get sick.

News Center Maine also reports that the Teen Text Support Line will continue after the pandemic passes. Please visit the NAMI website for more information about mental illness and for a list of resources.