At Vibrant Emotional Health, we are dedicated to advancing policies that enhance access to high-quality behavioral health crisis care. In alignment with this mission, we are pleased to highlight SAMHSA’s newly released National Behavioral Health Crisis Care Guidance, which provides comprehensive strategies for improving crisis response systems nationwide.
This initiative consists of two finalized documents and a draft resource aimed at strengthening Mobile Crisis Team (MCT) service delivery:
- National Guidelines for Behavioral Health Crisis Care: This is a foundational document outlining the essential elements of an effective crisis care system, including the importance of 24/7 crisis call centers, mobile crisis teams, and crisis stabilization programs.
- Model Program Definitions: A guide offering standardized definitions and best practices to ensure consistency in crisis care service implementation.
- Draft Mobile Crisis Team (MCT) Toolkit: A resource currently open for public input, designed to enhance mobile crisis team effectiveness by providing guidance on service delivery models, staffing, and integration with broader crisis care systems.
Why This Guidance Matters
With the nationwide implementation of 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, the need for a well-coordinated and accessible crisis response system has never been greater. SAMHSA’s new guidance:
- Strengthens community-based crisis care: Reducing reliance on emergency departments and law enforcement by expanding alternatives for individuals in crisis.
- Ensures equitable access to crisis services: Addressing disparities and ensuring that services are available to all populations, including those in underserved communities.
- Supports evidence-based crisis intervention: Providing best practices for mobile crisis teams, crisis stabilization units, and other critical components of crisis care.
- Enhances integration with existing behavioral health systems: Encouraging collaboration between crisis services, mental health providers, and healthcare systems.
Vibrant’s Commitment to Crisis Care Advocacy
As a leader in crisis intervention and a key partner in the 988 Lifeline network, Vibrant Emotional Health is committed to:
- Advocating for policies that expand funding and support for crisis care infrastructure.
- Providing training and technical assistance to crisis service providers.
- Promoting public awareness and understanding of behavioral health crisis care resources.
- Engaging with SAMHSA and other stakeholders to ensure that crisis response services remain accessible, effective, and person-centered.
Take Action
We encourage policymakers, behavioral health professionals, and community leaders to explore SAMHSA’s National Behavioral Health Crisis Care Guidance and provide feedback on the Draft Mobile Crisis Team Toolkit to help shape the future of crisis care in America.
By working together, we can ensure that every individual experiencing a behavioral health crisis has access to compassionate, timely, and effective care.