The story of “Dear Evan Hansen” contains themes and stories that are prominent and familiar to most of us: bullying, anxiety, depression, and suicide. Portland Ovations is teaming up with the Center for Grieving Children to provide support for audiences attending the Portland, Maine performances. In addition to being in the lobby of Merrill Auditorium for both performances, the center has provided the following information.

Death by suicide is a significant public health concern with long-lasting impacts on individuals, households, and the communities connected to the person who has died. It is the tenth leading cause of death in the US and the second leading cause of death for youth ages 15-24.

As of June 2024, death by suicide is the leading reported reason why individuals, families, and communities in need of bereavement support contact The Center for Grieving Children. Our free weekly peer support groups are available online and in person at our Portland and Sanford locations for children ages 3-18, young adults ages 19-30, and adults/caregivers as well as bereaved parents and individuals experiencing the death of a partner or spouse. The Center also helps businesses, schools, and communities experiencing the impact of death by suicide.

We are here to support you. If you are or someone you know has experienced a death by suicide, please contact us at cgcmaine.org or 207-775-5216.

Click here for more specific information, local and statewide resources, and for support in discussing death by suicide with children and teens.

Maine Crisis Line offers 24-hour support at 888-568-1112 or text HOME to 741-741. NAMI Maine offers a Teen Text Support Line at 207-515-8398 M-F 2-10pm and on weekends 12-10pm.