We have seen an alarming increase in death by suicide in northern New England in the last month — an issue that affects all of us and deserves our attention and focus.

Since 1949, the month of May has been recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month as an effort to increase understanding of how mental health shapes our lives. That month is focused on reducing stigma, encouraging people to seek support and ensuring that mental health care is accessible and equitable for all.

It is crucial that we talk about mental health year-round. But we can’t do this work alone.

At the Maine Crisis Line, we talk to people every day as they navigate crises. It is clear to us that we have a long way to go to help Mainers feel more supported. Here are some important statistics to keep in mind as we talk about the realities of mental health in Maine:

• In 2024, Maine’s crisis hotlines responded to an average of 12,476 contacts per month.

• Out of those responses, 15% of those who disclosed their age were under 24 years old.

• On the opposite end, in Maine, 20.5% of deaths in adults ages 65 and older were due to intentional self-harm.

We recently helped to launch a new website — 988maine.com — to help connect people in crisis with support services. You may have seen the website promoted on social media or in an ad on TV. If you have — that’s great.

Right now, only 18% of adults — about two in 10 — have heard some or a lot about 988. This website is meant to help spread the word about this important resource, which can help to save the lives of thousands of your neighbors.

We also know that people can be nervous about trying new things for a variety of reasons. Part of our work is to help quell fears about what might happen if you or someone you know chooses to utilize 988.

If you are experiencing a crisis, which, by the way is different for everyone and something only you can define for yourself, you can call, text or chat 988, and a real, trained, compassionate 988 crisis support specialist from the Maine Crisis Line will respond right away. Once you’ve connected with a crisis support specialist, they will listen and offer help without judgment.

The 988 Maine service is free and confidential. Our hotline is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. When you call 988 during a mental health or substance use crisis, you’ll speak with a trained crisis counselor who’s there to support you. In rare cases — less than 1% of calls in Maine — they may connect you to 911 if there’s a life-threatening emergency. But most of the time, help is provided without involving police or emergency services.

Although Mental Health Awareness Month has come and gone, we know that our work continues to provide support for those experience a crisis and to let people know about the resources available to them. You can do your part by memorizing 988 and letting others know about it, too. Together we can become a stronger, healthier Maine.