As the pandemic nears its third year, Maine officials are urging people experiencing burnout and depression to seek out support through new state programs like StrengthenME. 

During the state’s weekly COVID-19 briefing Wednesday, health commissioner Jeanne Lambrew said it’s normal to feel anxious about economic strain, health risks and the ongoing uncertainty the pandemic imposes on daily life. 

“Tending to your mental health is as important as protecting the public health,” Lambrew said. “We encourage you to be mindful of both during this holiday season.” 

She noted several resources available to Mainers, including the state’s pandemic-focused StrengthenME support program, available online and at 207-221-8198. The state says in a press release that it offers resources to “help people develop coping strategies and self-care practices before emotional challenges escalate into more serious mental health problems.” 

"Doing the right thing to limit exposure and avoid spreading COVID-19 can be hard, especially at this time of uncertainty when many are experiencing ‘pandemic fatigue’," state epidemiologist Dr. Nirav Shah said in a press release. "While it’s more important than ever to get vaccinated, wear a mask in public places, and keep distance to protect our physical health, it’s also crucial to tend to our mental health."

The state also offers its FrontLine WarmLine phone support service for healthcare workers, school staff and first responders, available every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 207-221-8196. And anyone can call or text Maine’s crisis line at 888-568-1112, seven days a week and 24 hours a day. 

“Behavioral health resources can also be accessed through Maine's 211 service,” the state release says. “Dial 211, text your zip code to 898-211, email info@211maine.org, or visit 211maine.org.” 

If you or someone you know is in crisis or may be considering suicide, don’t go through it alone. Help is always available. Use the resources above or contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (En Español: 1-888-628-9454; Deaf and Hard of Hearing: 1-800-799-4889) or the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.