Amidst rising call volumes and growing concerns for mental health across the nation, the Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT) program has received a significant financial boost. Today, the County Board of Supervisors accepted a one-time Congressional Directive Spending grant of $4.48 million to expand the reach of the MCRT program, according to an article from the County News Center.
The Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT) program that supports people confronting mental health struggles is getting a multi-million-dollar boost. https://t.co/fxfqqvrEqP
— SD HHSA (@SDCountyHHSA) September 26, 2023
Launched in January 2021, the MCRT represents a paradigm shift from law enforcement being the principal responder to behavioral health-related calls by providing a more specialized and compassionate response to those experiencing mental health crises. The program's clinicians have attended to more than 6,500 calls since its inception.
As a result of the grant, new MCRTs will be established to assist areas with higher call volumes, with the most recent data pointing towards East County as a region in particular need. Additionally, a pilot team will be established to respond directly to schools, given that nearly 30% of all MCRT clients were under 25 years old, highlighting the necessity for expanded support among youth and educational institutions.
Upon receiving a call from sources such as 9-1-1, law enforcement, or the 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, the MCRT services offer immediate assessment by a team of behavioral health experts, who can be dispatched to meet someone in crisis. Once on-scene, the MCRT assesses the person, de-escalates any concerns, and links them with vital services like counseling, case management, and substance use treatment.
Between June and August, the East region registered 445 calls, compared to 359 calls in the Central region, 297 in North Coastal, 272 in the South, and 187 in North Inland, as per County News Center. This data underscores the importance of additional MCRT presence.
By addressing the mental health needs of communities and schools, the MCRT aims to provide targeted and effective care for those in crisis. The program's rapid response, combined with expert knowledge of mental health and substance use treatment resources, contributes to a more informed and focused intervention, reducing unnecessary law enforcement involvement and easing the burden on emergency services.
