988 is a good start, but better response is needed

A recent report evaluating Nebraska’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline system sheds light on both its successes and critical areas for improvement. While the state has made commendable strides in managing the lifeline’s call center operations, the gaps in mobile response and inpatient care are stark and demand immediate action.

In May alone, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline managed nearly 390,000 calls, alongside 49,000 chats and 95,000 texts nationwide. This reflects a crucial lifeline for many, but the real challenge lies beyond these initial contacts. According to the mental health advocacy group Inseparable, Nebraska’s performance in providing timely on-the-ground response and adequate inpatient facilities falls significantly short.

Grace Manley of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention underscores the severe impact on rural Nebraskans, who often face harrowing drives of two to five hours, sometimes more, to access appropriate mental health crisis services. This geographical and resource disparity not only exacerbates the crisis but can also be a matter of life and death.

The report calls for 18 additional mobile response teams and nearly 200 more inpatient beds across the state. This isn’t merely a call for increased resources but a plea for equitable access to life-saving services. Angela Kimball, Chief Advocacy Officer at Inseparable, highlights the tragic outcomes that can result when mental health crises are inadequately addressed. The alarming statistic that one in five police shootings involve a person experiencing a mental health crisis underscores the urgent need for non-law enforcement intervention.

Mobile crisis response teams and crisis stabilization services have proven effective in other states, offering a compassionate and cost-effective alternative to emergency room visits and law enforcement involvement. These teams can de-escalate situations, provide immediate care, and connect individuals with longer-term support, thereby reducing the trauma and financial burden associated with more drastic measures.

A critical misperception that hampers the 988 system’s effectiveness is the fear of police involvement. Unlike the 911 system, 988 does not utilize geolocation, allowing individuals to remain anonymous and seek help without fear of unwanted police intervention. This assurance can encourage more people to reach out in times of need, knowing their privacy and autonomy will be respected.

Nebraska’s current response rate of 87% for in-state 988 calls is slightly below the national average of 88%, and both figures fall short of the 90% benchmark recommended by Inseparable. This gap highlights an area where immediate improvements can be made to ensure that those in crisis receive timely support.

The Nebraska Legislature should recognize and address these deficiencies, especially given their disproportionate impact on rural communities. Investing in more mobile response teams and inpatient facilities is not just a matter of compliance but a moral imperative to protect and support our most vulnerable residents.

While Nebraska’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a crucial resource, it is imperative that the state bolsters its crisis response system. By doing so, we can ensure that every Nebraskan, regardless of their location, has access to the help they need when they need it most.