County provides mental health supports

MT. PLEASANT — Henry County will further support mental health needs of residents with additional services, training, and reminders.

Mt. Pleasant Disability Services Director with Southeast Iowa Link Access (SEIL) Sarah Berndt Office shared information about the potential for a mobile crisis response team, a reminder to use 9-8-8, and Question. Persuade. Refer county training at the latest department head meeting with Henry County Board of Supervisors.

“We got responses for mobile crisis response from two bidders and then one of those two bidders also bid to provide crisis stabilization community-based services,” Berndt shared.

According to Berndt, at the end of April, the governing board for SEIL selected Elevate from Waterloo as the winner for this bid.

“I know the management team has been working on getting a contract in place so that the governing board can sign that at their governing board meeting in May so that we then can get everything taken care of to get them set up so that they can start providing services,” Berndt added.

Berndt expressed excitement at the prospect of adding a mobile crisis response team that could assist in de-escalation and mental health crises in the county.

According to Elevate’s website, their mobile crisis response teams run 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year for youth, adults, families, and anyone in crisis.

“We offer on-site and in-person interventions to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis,” Elevate states. “We are here to help you at your home or any other location.”

“It’s going to be great for you guys because you guys are going to have a mental health two mental health professionals,” Berndt said to Sheriff Rich McNamee. “You know, if you get to the scene first and you want them to come in and you've cleared the scene, that you know it's safe, then you guys can get back out on patrol and they can take and finish out that call with that person.”

According to County Supervisor Marc Lindeen, Elevate says they respond within an hour 95% of the time.

“So hopefully they will actually be up and running by the first of the fiscal year or before,” Berndt said.

“It’s definitely needed,” Police Chief Lyle Murray said of the addition.

According to Murray, just this week police responded to a call that he felt would have benefited from a mental health professional not just officers.

The 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline launched in the summer of 2022 will connect those needing services not only with someone on the phone, but with the addition of the crisis response team, this number can connect these individuals with in person supports, as well.

“Call or text our partners at 988 or YOUR LIFE IOWA and they will dispatch our mobile crisis responders directly to your location,” Elevate says.

Berndt encouraged Henry County Department heads to place 9-8-8 information in areas throughout the county where those that need the information can easily access it.

According to flyers provided by Berndt, there are signs that could indicate an adult or youth is struggling with or in crisis.

When you notice these signs, Berndt encourages individuals to contact 9-8-8 as soon as possible.

Suicide Warning Signs:

Talking about or making plans for suicide

Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly

Talking about being a burden to others

Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain

Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs

Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live

Sleeping too little or too much

Withdrawing or feeling isolated

Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge

Displaying extreme mood swings

Expressing hopelessness about the future

In addition to bringing on a Crisis Response Team, and providing information about 9-8-8, many county employees train in Question. Persuade. Refer. Training, this month.

This training aims to reduce suicidal behaviors and save lives by “providing innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training.”

Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com