This post was written by Heather Henry, MSN, RN, Program Manager, SOS Program/Peer Support Recovery Program, Parkview Behavioral Health Institute.
Having a reliable support system can make all the difference in moments of crisis. But for many people facing a mental health emergency, knowing where to turn and who to call can be difficult. That’s where services like the SOS program and Parkview Behavioral Health Institute’s (PBHI) Mobile Crisis Team step in and provide a valuable lifeline in times of need.
Understand the SOS program
SOS is a universal sign asking for help. This community-based initiative is designed to provide immediate support to individuals experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis when needed. PBHI programs provide a proactive approach to crisis intervention through behavioral health and substance use professionals who address the overall goal of de-escalating crises and connecting individuals to needed resources.
Access to the SOS team
As a leading mental health services organization, Parkview is passionate about promoting emergency services. PBHI Helpline Professionals, health care providers, therapists, caseworkers, and community members can contact the SOS program by calling the PBHI Helpline at 260-471-9440 or 800-284-8439.
Timely response
Our crisis management team of trained mental health professionals provides support and intervention to emergency crisis calls within one hour in Allen County and within 90 minutes in Northeast Indiana’s Parkview Health District. Mobilize quickly to deliver, minimizing risk of escalation. Timely assistance is paramount to the mission of the SOS program. When someone is in crisis, waiting for help can make the situation worse. When an SOS call is received, a team member is immediately dispatched to the location, such as a private home, public space, or medical facility.
patient-centered care
Everyone experiences a mental health crisis differently. Intervention requires specialized knowledge and skills. The PBHI Mobile Crisis Team is comprised of clinicians with expertise in crisis intervention, de-escalation techniques, and risk assessment. Their training enables them to assess situations, provide immediate assistance, and make informed decisions to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals in crisis.
The SOS program recognizes this diversity and tailors its response to meet each person’s specific needs. The program takes a patient-centered approach to care, including providing emotional support, connecting individuals with community resources, and facilitating access to mental health professionals.
Collaboration and coordination
Effective crisis intervention often requires collaboration between various stakeholders. The SOS program fosters partnerships with local law enforcement, health care providers, social service agencies, and other community organizations. By working together on behalf of individuals and based on their best interests, these organizations share resources and expertise to provide comprehensive support to those in crisis, not only during the event but also after the event. can be provided. This approach ensures that individuals are connected and able to successfully maintain their lives within the community.
Follow-up and ongoing support
Support does not end simply by addressing the immediate crisis. The SOS program recognizes the importance of follow-up and ongoing support to prevent future crises. The SOS team conducts regular check-ins, connects individuals to ongoing mental health services, provides additional resources as needed, and assigns a caseworker when case management is warranted. Provide temporary case management until. At that point, appropriate handoffs occur between SOS program team members and caseworkers to ensure a path to long-term stability and health.
Community Outreach and Engagement
The SOS program goes beyond crisis response and actively engages with the community to raise awareness about mental health issues and available resources. By participating in outreach events, training sessions, and community forums, they strive to reduce stigma, promote mental health literacy, and empower individuals to seek help when they need it.
continuous improvement
PBHI is committed to continuous improvement and innovation in crisis response. Through continuous evaluation, feedback mechanisms, and stakeholder collaboration, the organization strives to improve the effectiveness and accessibility of its services and ensure that individuals in crisis receive the best possible care. Masu.
help is available
For individuals dealing with mental health issues during an emergency, having access to immediate support can be a lifeline. Programs like the SOS program are critical to providing timely intervention, personalized care, and ongoing support to those in need. By prioritizing collaboration, community engagement, and continuous improvement, these efforts build more resilient and supportive communities where mental health crises are addressed with compassion and effective interventions. .
Assistance is available day or night by calling the 24/7 PBHI Helpline at 260-471-9440 or 800-284-8439. Our team of telephone specialists will connect you with a mobile crisis management team or other services depending on your situation.