Halftime for Hope Radiothon to Benefit Sweetser

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

Tackle the Stigma: Halftime for Hope Radiothon

With the Big Game just around the corner, we’re teaming up with Q97.9 and 92 Moose to support mental health services for Maine families.

Your favorite song can help fuel Sweetser’s mission. From now through February 4th, you can request a track by making a donation of any amount to Sweetser.

Mark Your Calendars:

  • Request Window: Now – February 4th
  • The Big Event: Thursday, February 5th
  • Where: Tune in to Q97.9 or 92 Moose to hear your song, messages of hope, and Sweetser team members live on-air!

How to Participate:

  • Request & Donate: Visit HalftimeforHope.com.
  • Submit your song request and provide an optional message of hope.
  • Listen In: Tune in on Feb. 5th to hear your shout-out and support a great cause.

Let’s score a touchdown for mental health!

TV Segment: Checking in on Our Mental Health

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

In this week’s Mental Health Moment, we focus on a powerful yet simple way to better understand how you’re feeling: a free, science‑based online mental health screening tool. Sweetser Chief Communications Officer Justin Chenette joins WMTW’s Meghan Torjussen to talk about why these tools can be such a helpful starting point—and what to do once you get your results.

Click here to take the mental health screening.

If the screening helps you recognize that you could use additional support, there are resources available:

  • Call or text 988 if you’re experiencing a mental health crisis. The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7.
  • Peer support lines are also available if you need to talk through feelings that haven’t risen to a crisis level. Peer Support Line: 1-866-771-9276
  • If you’d like to schedule an appointment or connect with a mental health professional, you can reach Sweetser directly at info@sweetser.org.

Snow Closure Information – Jan 26th, 2026

Posted by Justin Chenette

Mental health doesn’t take a snow day, and neither do we.

While our admin offices, clinics, peer center, and school are closed today (1/26), remote services for certain programs are available through our PromiseLine 1-800-434-3000. 

Our free Peer Support Line 1-866-771-9276 and the Maine Crisis Line 988 are also available resources you can use today to stay connected to support.

Safety for both staff and clients is a top priority for us. Please take care of yourself today as Maine cleans up from the storm.

TV Segment: Beat the Winter Blues – Plus FREE Ice Skating Event

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

This week’s Mental Health Moment with WMTW explores how staying active—especially during Maine’s cold winter months—can boost your mood. Sweetser’s Chief Communications Officer Justin Chenette shares why winter activities like skating, skiing, or even a simple walk outdoors can lift your spirits, increase endorphins, reduce isolation, and help you stay present.

Plus, learn about an upcoming free community event: Ice Skate for Sweetser on Saturday, January 31, at the Waterhouse Center in Kennebunk. A perfect way to get outside, connect, and beat the winter blues!

Learn more about Ice Skate for Sweetser.

In the News: The Rising Popularity of Weight Loss Drugs

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

Weight‑loss medications like Wegovy and Ozempic continue to surge in popularity, with spending on GLP‑1 drugs increasing more than 500% between 2018 and 2023, according to the American Medical Association. The recent approval of Wegovy in pill form is expected to make these medications even more accessible.

While many patients have seen significant benefits, medical professionals are raising red flags. Dr. Marc Kaplan, Medical Director at Sweetser, notes that not all providers are adequately screening patients before prescribing these medications. His primary concern: individuals with undiagnosed eating disorders may be put at risk.

Watch Dr. Kaplan’s interview with WMTW’s Jacob Murphy:

Read the full article: Sweetser’s medical director weighs in on weight loss drugs

TV Segment: Coping With Anxiety

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

A new poll from the American Psychiatric Association shows that many Americans are entering 2026 with elevated anxiety. The top concerns include:

  • Personal finances (59%)
  • Uncertainty about the year ahead (53%)
  • Current events (49%)
  • Physical health (46%)
  • Mental health (42%)

In the latest Mental Health Moment with WMTW, Sweetser’s Chief Communications Officer Justin Chenette says this combination creates “a perfect storm.” With so much happening at once, people are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and emotionally stretched—not because of one single issue, but due to the compounding effects of stress. The good news: you’re far from alone, and there are ways to feel more grounded as the new year begins.

Watch the full segment below:

Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or want to support others, Sweetser offers free mental health tools:

Get Support
📞 Peer Support Line (24/7): 1‑866‑771‑9276
Talk with someone who understands and can help you process what you’re feeling.
Visit the SupportME Peer Support Center in Brunswick for in‑person connection. Learn more about the SupportME Peer Center.

Help Others
📘 Free Mental Health First Aid Training
Learn how to recognize signs of mental health challenges and connect people to help.
Details: Sweetser.org/FreeMentalHealthTraining

Ice Skate for Sweetser – Free Event Jan. 31st

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

Ice Skate for Sweetser
Saturday, Jan. 31st, 1 – 4 PM
51 Main Street, Kennebunk
Donations to Sweetser are welcome!

Lace up your skates and join us for a FREE fun-filled day on the ice! Join us for Ice Skate for Sweetser on January 31st from 1 to 4PM at the Waterhouse Center on Main Street in Kennebunk.

This free, family-friendly public skate is a fun way to support Sweetser’s essential mental health services and help families in our community access the care they need. Enjoy tasty treats and beverages, spend an afternoon on the ice, and enter to win fun raffle prizes generously donated by local Kennebunk businesses.

The event is made possible through a partnership with the Kennebunk Rotary, the Kennebunk Chamber, Kennebunk Savings Bank, and other generous community sponsors. Whether you skate, snack, or cheer on others, your participation makes a meaningful difference for families in need. Donations are welcome, and every glide helps make a difference! Limited skates available.

Help Sweetser Meet Our Year-End Goal

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

As we prepare to celebrate the new year, many Maine families are still waiting to access mental health treatment. We have a goal to hit before 2026 arrives, and we need your help to unlock a $10,000 matching gift.
Hope takes action—and today, your action goes twice as far. Double your impact. Let’s start the new year by ensuring no child walks their path alone.

TV Segment: Handling Grief and Loss During the Holiday Season and New Year

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

The holidays can be a joyous time of year, but for some it may be a struggle. One of the biggest challenges that people may face during the holidays and into the new year is grief from the loss of a family member or loved one.

WMTW’s Ronnie Parrillo sat down with Sweetser’s Medical Director, Dr. Marc Kaplan to discuss dealing with grief and loss during the holiday season.

Watch the full segment below:

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, dial 988 at any time. You can also call Sweetser’s Peer Support Line at 866-771-9276.

WGME Spotlight on ME: Help is Just One Call Away

Posted by Jessica Tornatore

When someone is overwhelmed, in crisis, or unsure where to look for a path toward change, knowing the right number to call can make reaching support faster and far less stressful. Sweetser’s Chief Communications Officer Justin Chenette sat down with WGME’s Adrienne Stein to discuss the differences among Maine’s key mental health resource lines ensures that people receive the most valuable help at the most opportune time.

Watch the full segment below:

You can read the full article here.

Help is available. Hope is possible. We are here for you.
  • Access Mental Health/Recovery Services: 1-800-434-3000
  • Access Immediate Crisis Support: 9-8-8
  • Access Free Peer Support: 1-866-771-9276