As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, the Mississippi Department of Mental Health (DMH) is highlighting the mental health crisis services available across the state. This month serves as a crucial time to focus on mental wellness, reduce stigma, and provide hope to people and families facing mental health challenges.
DMH supports a variety of crisis services designed to provide immediate and effective services to those in need. Among these services are the Crisis Stabilization Units (CSUs), the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Mobile Crisis Response Teams, and the Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs).
Crisis Stabilization Units (CSUs) are vital resources that provide short-term, intensive mental health care to people experiencing severe psychiatric crises. These units offer a safe and therapeutic environment, ensuring people receive the care and support they need to stabilize and recover. Mississippi currently has 14 CSUs operated by the Community Mental Health Centers with 196 beds available strategically located to serve residents across the state.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a critical, nationwide service that connects callers with trained crisis counselors 24/7. By dialing or texting 988 or chatting with 988lifeline.org, people in Mississippi can access immediate support, whether they are experiencing thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crises, or any other kind of emotional distress. This easy-to-remember number ensures that help is always just a call or text away.
Mobile Crisis Response Teams provide rapid, on-site crisis intervention services wherever they are needed, whether in homes, schools, or other community settings. These teams are composed of mental health professionals who are trained to de-escalate situations, provide immediate care, and connect people with ongoing support and resources. The mobility of these teams ensures that help can reach people quickly and effectively, reducing the need for emergency room visits and law enforcement involvement. Teams are operated by the Community Mental Health Centers and are available everywhere in the state 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs) play a foundational role in providing ongoing mental health care and support. These centers offer a broad spectrum of services, including crisis intervention, outpatient therapy, medication management, and more. CMHCs are dedicated to meeting the unique needs of their communities, ensuring that people and families have access to the care they need to thrive. The CMHCs are the primary service providers of outpatient community-based services in the state.
“It is important that everyone in Mississippi has access to the mental health care they need, especially during times of crisis,” said DMH Executive Director Wendy Bailey. “Crisis services like CSUs, 988, and Mobile Crisis Teams provide hope, support, and recovery for all people in Mississippi. During Mental Health Awareness Month, we want to remind everyone that help is available, and recovery is possible.”
DMH encourages everyone to take this opportunity to learn more about the mental health resources available in Mississippi, to reach out for help if needed, and to support those around them who may be struggling. Together, we can foster a community where mental health is prioritized, and every person is given the opportunity to lead a fulfilling life.
For more information or to find your local CMHC and the crisis services near you, visit the Mississippi Department of Mental Health website at www.dmh.ms.gov or visit www.mentalhealthms.com or call the DMH Helpline at 1-877-210-8513. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis call or text 988 or chat with 988lifeline.org to be connected with a trained mental health professional 24 hours a day.