A southern Illinois human services agency has launched a new 24/7 crisis line, in preparation for a national crisis line coming next year.
Arrowleaf CEO Sherrie Crabb said the agency is preparing for more calls as the national line becomes more publicized. She says having a crisis line that's staffed around the clock will make a big difference for callers experiencing a mental health emergency.
"It really means that they're in an emergent situation that maybe they don't need to call 911, but they still are dealing with something that, if they don't receive that help right then, that may lead to something else," Crabb said.
Crabb said the agency has already seen an increase in call volume in recent months.
The crisis line can also be reached via text message, providing a secure line of communication for people who don't feel comfortable talking on the phone or who may lack the privacy to make a call.
The new crisis line number is 618-658-2611.
