
Marking its fourth successful year in operation, the County's Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT) program has seen a significant uptick in call volume, showcasing its expanding footprint in crisis management. Initially rolled out as a pilot in January 2021, the service reportedly fielded 7,000 calls from July 2023 through June 2024, a substantial increase from its 131-call debut year. These teams are staffed by trained professionals who engage directly with individuals in crisis, applying tailored strategies to calm the situation without the need for police presence, according to the County of San Diego.
Dr. Luke Bergmann, director of Behavioral Health Services, underscored the impact of these responders, stating, "These teams are effectively meeting those in crisis where they are and stabilize more than 50% of cases in the field, reducing stress on law enforcement." Designed to intervene in situations barring threats of violence or medical emergencies, these MCRT teams bridge the gap by providing assessments, deploying crisis intervention tactics, and connecting people with essential services, as detailed by the County of San Diego.
The program's statistics signal progress for the community's behavioral health landscape. In addition to handling an increased volume of cases, the MCRT has expanded from a meager count of two teams at its genesis to an impressive 44 teams in operation. The reach of these services now includes offering support for K-12 students across every school district in the region since November 2024. Defining the threshold for a behavioral health crisis can involve a range of symptoms, from shifts in mood or behavior to thoughts of self-harm or sudden changes in personal care practices. The initiative's anniversary fortuitously aligns with the national observation of Mental Health Month.