County Leadership in Mental Health: How Counties are Leading the Way in Crisis System Transformation

America’s 3,069 counties are integral to the local behavioral health system of care, including crisis care. Each year counties invest billions in the infrastructure in community health, hospitals, and social services, as well as $107 billion in justice and public safety systems.

Since its launch, 988 has received 9.6 million calls, texts, and chats. Demand could increase significantly given that a poll in October 2023 found that only 22 percent of respondents were familiar with 988 and 29 percent had never heard of it. Counties are working to develop and support new models of servicing individuals in crisis that are tailored to fit the unique needs of their community. As exemplified by Los Angeles County, Calif., King County, Wash., and Monroe County, N.Y., innovation is occurring at the county level. The need for long term support, collaboration and shared learnings are critical as these systems mature.

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