San Diego officials tout success of mobile crisis teams to treat mental health and drug abuse

Abstract

San Diego County officials touted the successes of a new specialized team that responds to people experiencing mental health and substance abuse crises, situations that were often previously handled by law enforcement, the Times of San Diego reported Feb. 28. The Mobile Crisis Response Teams (MCRTs), which are composed of mental health clinicians, case managers and peer support specialists, began services in January 2021 and are now available countywide. Those suffering from nonviolent crises are given assessments and crisis intervention services and linked to treatment and other services, according to the county. MCRTs are partnered with the Chula Vista and National City police departments — which refer calls to MCRTs when appropriate — though county officials say work is underway to establish partnerships with nine other jurisdictions. MCRTs have responded to 672 referrals and linked more than 110 people to treatment services, according to the county. Officials say 47% of the referrals have led to people gaining access to treatment options in their communities. County officials said the recent focus on behavioral health services has been beneficial, with the implementation of MCRTs and crisis stabilization units, which provide individuals with services in a community‐based or hospital setting. “These response teams are saving lives, demonstrating that this new approach to mental health is showing signs of real progress,” Supervisor Terra Lawson‐Remer said.