Maine must remember that mental healthcare is healthcare | Letter

As we approach the November election, Mainers should remember that mental healthcare is healthcare, and our votes should reflect that.

According to the National Alliance for Mental Illness, Maine ranks 49th in the nation for access to and outcomes from mental healthcare. About 13,000 people are on waitlists, with average waits around eight months. Only about 14% of need is being met, and 66 areas are designated mental health professional shortage areas. Piscataquis and Lincoln counties have no practicing psychiatrists, and many rural counties have roughly half the provider density of the Portland metro area.

We would never tell someone with a broken bone to “wait it out” or “try harder.” Yet people seeking mental healthcare are too often met with long waits and too few providers. The consequences can be devastating.

Two years ago, I lost my brother to suicide at age 41. When he needed help most, he was told the wait could be two years. As his condition worsened, our only option was the emergency room — waiting and hoping a psychiatric bed would open.

This November, voters should ask candidates how they will ensure treatment is affordable and available statewide. Investing in mental healthcare saves lives and reduces pressure on emergency rooms, law enforcement, shelters, schools and families left to manage crises alone.

NAMI Maine (the National Alliance for Mental Illness) is hosting a Sept. 24 panel for legislators and candidates — an opportunity to hear directly from Mainers about systematic gaps and opportunities for solutions.

In November, we should vote for leaders who prioritize mental healthcare.

Emily Horton
NAMI Maine board member
Belfast

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