988: An Opportunity to Build a Better Mental Health Crisis System
A mental health crisis can be a time of distress, desperation, and even tragedy. But with the right connections to care, a crisis can also be a turning point. This July, the launch of the nationwide 988 mental health hotline presents funders with a unique opportunity to create a robust crisis response system that supports people with mental health challenges before, during, and after their most vulnerable times. The launch of 988 is just the first of many steps to build a better behavioral healthcare system that cares for those in crisis. With states and localities responsible for the implementation and funding of this system, philanthropy has an opportunity - and responsibility - to strengthen these efforts.
This month, we examine why it’s important for philanthropy to lay the groundwork for urgent reform of the entire crisis response system and share high level considerations for funding local action. Next month, Mindful Philanthropy will launch our latest guidance on how funders can support 988 implementation within a broader crisis response system.
Moments of Crisis and Failed Responses
There is a growing need for an equitable, timely, and coordinated mental health crisis response system that serves all Americans. A mental health crisis is any situation in which a person’s behavior puts them at risk of hurting themselves or others, and/or prevents them from being able to care for themselves or function effectively in the community. This may cause friends, family members, or even the individuals themselves to call for emergency services, such as dialing 911.
An inadequate crisis response can mean missed opportunities to connect people with needed care, unnecessary involvement with a criminal justice setting, and further trauma. In some tragic instances, it can even lead to death. For communities of color, the intersection of racism, mental illness, and police violence are particularly troubling, and can lead to increased distrust of emergency personnel and hesitancy to call for help in a crisis.
A mental health hotline such as 988 is just one component of a crisis response system. A full Crisis Response Continuum of Care includes the following core components:
Crisis call center hubs - Many crises can be resolved by skilled staff who are trained to answer a range of calls for mental health issues, suicide risk, and substance use - such as through 988. It is crucial that these hubs have the staff and resources they need to answer each call promptly and effectively.
Mobile crisis teams - These teams include behavioral health professionals such as social workers, peer specialists, and family peer advocates who provide care in people’s homes and other community settings. They are trained to assess crisis situations, de-escalate, and intervene, as well as connect individuals to further care.
Crisis stabilization options - Those in crisis should have access to multiple options for care if necessary, such as a crisis stabilization at an inpatient facility, hospitalization, or other clinical setting.
Click here to read our full article on how funders can support the launch of 988 and the development of a robust crisis response system.
