Crisis Intervention Services
What To Expect with Crisis Intervention Services
This can be a frightening time for you.
Calling the crisis line serves as the first point of contact for callers seeking help, support, and information and is a crucial part of the mental health emergency services in Bedford and Somerset Counties. Unfortunately, crisis can affect anyone at any time. The need for emotional support or referral assistance is something most individuals encounter at some point in their lives. Staff and volunteers are available 24/7/365 to help individuals discover the skills that they uniquely possess and resources that allow them to develop solutions and maximize self-sufficiency. Often, just talking through a problem helps the caller. However, if the caller needs more than the crisis line, the caller will be placed in contact with a mobile crisis worker. If people have the opportunity to talk through a crisis, the risk of harmful occurrences to self or others is greatly diminished. Immediate support during a crisis has also been shown to greatly reduce risks of abuse and neglect. One of the biggest appeals of our crisis lines is the anonymous and confidential nature of the free service available to ANYONE in need of assistance. During times of crisis, people often feel more comfortable talking to someone with whom they do not have to identify themselves, enabling them to discuss feelings and concerns in a way that may differ from talking with friends and family members.
About 988
In 2020, Congress designated the new 988 dialing code to be operated through the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | SAMHSA
Walk-In Crisis Service
Anyone is welcome to come in to the office during regular business hours. There you will be able to talk with someone about your immediate need and discuss your options. For many people, this may be what you need to alleviate the crisis at the present time. We can also refer you for other on-going services as needed. Some people may also choose to be admitted to the hospital as appropriate.
Mobile Crisis Service
Mobile services are designed to meet the needs of more pressing crisis situations. It is not uncommon for police and/or ambulance to be involved in these services. Every effort is made to de-escalate the situation by phone prior to this. However sometimes it is necessary to take further steps to assure the safety of those involved. We always attempt to use the least restrictive measure while we deal with the emergency.
These services are state funded and/or paid for by the Office of Medical Assistance. There is no cost to individuals receiving these services.
