‘The Maine Question’ asks how to address mental health needs in rural areas

Many people nationwide are experiencing a decline in their mental health. Rates of anxiety, depression, and substance abuse are rising, more so in rural areas. 

Ten out of 16 Maine counties have a shortage of mental health professionals. Only about half of the state population receives the services they need. 

At UMaine, a major effort is underway to recruit more mental health care providers to serve in rural areas. Using federal funding, researchers from the Psychology Department and School of Social Work are working with other experts to increase the number of psychologists, social workers and substance abuse professionals in areas with the greatest need. 

In Episode 2 of Season 5 of “The Maine Question,” the leaders of this project,  Sandra Butler, director of the School of Social Work; Emily Haigh, director of clinical training for the clinical psychology doctoral program; and psychology professor Jeffrey Hecker, discuss their plans to address the shortage of mental health and other behavioral health workers in the state. 

Listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, SoundCloud, Stitcher, Spotify or “The Maine Question” website. New episodes are added Thursdays.

What topics would you like to learn more about? What questions do you have for UMaine experts? Email them to mainequestion@maine.edu.