Kaiser Health News (8/11, Pattani) reports, “Some advocates and people who had experiences with the mental health system took to social media to voice concerns about” the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline after it launched in July. Some people expressed concern about potential police involvement in the 988 response process, but “988 was created as an alternative to 911,” according to Vibrant Emotional Health Vice President John Draper. After noting that Vibrant administers the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Kaiser Health News reports, “Starting this fall, Draper said, 988 will update its policies to require supervisors to review all calls that result in the use of emergency services.” Meanwhile, 988 counselors will get additional training that relates to police concerns people may have when considering whether they should call 988.
Related Links:
— “Social Media Posts Criticize the 988 Suicide Hotline for Calling Police. Here’s What You Need to Know. ” Aneri Pattani, Kaiser Health News, August 11, 2022