Why 911 is not just for emergencies, but also for mental health support
Have you ever called 911 for anything other than an emergency? Perhaps you’ve witnessed a crime, or maybe you’ve been involved in a car accident. But what about mental health emergencies? Despite the stigma surrounding mental health, calling 911 for mental health support is just as valid and necessary as any other emergency. Let’s dive deeper into why and how you can seek help.
The Importance of 911 for Mental Health
Mental health crises are just as critical as physical emergencies. In fact, they should not even be considered separate categories. According to a report by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 20% of individuals who call 911 suffer from a mental health crisis. Considering that one in five Americans experiences a mental illness in any given year, this number is staggering.
The unfortunate reality is that mental health crises can be fatal. Suicide rates in the United States have risen 35% since 1999, making it the tenth leading cause of death. Mental health emergencies, like suicidal ideation or a manic episode, require immediate intervention to prevent harm to oneself or others. In such cases, calling 911 is often the quickest and most practical course of action.
How 911 Can Help
911 dispatchers are trained to handle emergencies of all kinds, including mental health crises. When you call 911 for a mental health emergency, the dispatcher will gather necessary information and dispatch first responders who can assess the situation and provide appropriate care. Depending on your location, you might receive specialized care from crisis intervention teams, trained mental health professionals who work alongside law enforcement.
Once you receive emergency care, it’s essential to continue seeking help. Mental health support doesn’t just end after an emergency is resolved. Follow-up care ensures that you can receive comprehensive support and prevent future crises. Depending on your needs, you might consider seeking therapy or medication management from a licensed mental health professional.
Break the Stigma
Despite the prevalence of mental illness, many people still feel ashamed to seek help. The unfortunate stigma surrounding mental illness prevents individuals from seeking the support they need and often results in disastrous consequences. It’s essential to break down this stigma and recognize that mental health is just as important as physical health.
Voices across the country have called for more appropriate ways to provide mental health care during emergencies. In many cities, communities are developing mental health crisis hotlines, which can provide quicker responses and a higher degree of specialized care than traditional emergency services.
Conclusion
Mental health emergencies are just as critical as physical emergencies. Calling 911 for mental health support is just as valid and necessary as any other emergency. Remember, when you call 911 for mental health support, you’ll receive access to trained professionals who can guide you through the crisis and provide appropriate care. Seeking follow-up care and breaking down the stigma surrounding mental illness is also crucial. By doing so, we can work towards a brighter future for mental health support.
