How to Reach a Mobile Crisis Team: Results From a National Survey

The rollout of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has raised concerns about the support available to callers. Currently, callers are directed to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, where they may receive counseling or a referral. However, if immediate in-person support is needed, a mobile crisis team (MCT) could be beneficial. MCTs consist of behavioral health providers, medical staff, and sometimes law enforcement. While MCTs are widely used, there is a lack of systematic information about their deployment and functioning. To address this, a survey was conducted in 2021-2022, gathering responses from 554 MCTs across the United States. The survey revealed that MCTs can be deployed through various channels, including calling the NSPL, contacting teams directly, or calling 911. However, it was found that many communities cannot access MCTs through the 988 Lifeline. As the implementation of the 988 Lifeline continues, it is crucial to connect call centers to MCTs to ensure seamless access to mental health support. Additionally, community members should be informed about how to reach an MCT when needed.