In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing efforts to enhance mental health crisis response services in the community. The current system, which operates Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM, is being pushed to expand to a 24/7 model to better address the needs of residents. The service is free for all county members and aims to reduce trauma associated with traditional emergency responses, which often involve police presence.

The meeting highlighted the importance of having mental health clinicians and family care supporters respond to crises instead of uniformed police officers, as this approach can alleviate additional stress for individuals in distress. The Mobile Response and Stabilization Services (MRSS) program was emphasized for its role in providing immediate support and identifying appropriate placements for individuals needing further care.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the availability of youth resources, including pre-diagnostic assessments for those under 18, which aim to make treatment more accessible based on income. Training programs for community members on how to respond to mental health crises were also discussed, with a focus on trauma-informed care and empathetic approaches to mental health.

Officials reiterated their commitment to improving mental health services and ensuring that community members have access to the necessary resources to support their well-being. The meeting concluded with an invitation for organizations to request tailored training sessions to further enhance community preparedness in handling mental health crises.