Crisis Response Stories
A mental health crisis can affect anyone at any time. You, your loved one, your friends, your neighbors. Hear from people across the country that experienced our current response to mental health and suicidal crises.
“I live with mental illness. 988 has kept me alive. I have called and texted with them approximately 50 times. They are kind and helpful. Our local warmline is not nearly enough. They don’t always answer and aren’t trained. Please support this lifesaving hotline.”
— Jennifer from Ohio
“My adult son was diagnosed ten years ago with major depressive disorder, anxiety, and more recently bipolar II and alcoholism. About once a year he has a mental health crises requiring hospitalization. Last year, I called 988 and we spoke to someone trained specifically in mental crisis response: she helped us get him to the emergency room, and from there, to a mental health hospital. She offered to send a crisis response team, but it would have taken hours to mobilize the team and get to our location. Our county needs its own mobile crisis team to provide a quick, non-law enforcement response to those needing in-person help. The launch of 988 has provided much-needed help, but there is so much more to be done to provide access to quality resources to anyone, regardless of their life situation.”
— An advocate from Georgia
“My loved ones, my friends and I have all benefitted from access to 24/7 988 support. It is truly life saving and provides access to immediate support with almost no barriers.“
— Sophia from Minnesota
“988 saved my child from a suicide attempt and provided me, as a parent, with concrete guidance to support in the situation. It is a vital service that should be a priority for any representative of our communities and lives.“
— An advocate from Minnesota
“As NAMI member, I have a loved one with a serious mental health condition. In the past I have had to call 911 when there was a crisis. While our local police were trained to respond effectively, there was no where they could take him except jail! As a volunteer in our local NAMI office, I often receive calls from families who need immediate help. The 988 number is essential to getting help quickly. However, also needed is an appropriately trained response team, as well as crisis centers for individuals in crisis. Emergency rooms are not equipped for mental health crises and jails are not appropriate either.”
— Mary from Washington
“As a Texas Police Officer I regularly deal with those in crisis and know 988 can save lives.’
— Michael from Texas
