Sheriff’s Program Addresses Mental Health Crises
As the nation recognizes Suicide Prevention Awareness Month this month, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office is spotlighting its co-responder program, a critical initiative designed to address mental health crises.
Since its inception in September 2021, the sheriff’’s co-responder program has been at the forefront of mental health intervention in St. Mary’s County.
Under the leadership of Alexis Higdon, the community mental health liaison, the program pairs sworn sheriff’s office Crisis Intervention Team members with a mental health professional on calls involving individuals in crisis. This approach allows for immediate mental health assessments and timely interventions, including connecting individuals with behavioral health care services.
Over the past three years, more than a hundred individuals have received mental health care assistance from the program. The co-responder program is a vital part of the sheriff’s office’s commitment to reducing the risk of suicide and improving mental health outcomes in St. Mary’s County.
To further support well-being, the office’s website, www.firstsheriff.com/community/resources, offers a list of resources, contact information, and details for support services, including behavioral health, crisis management, financial assistance, and many other needs.
Those needing immediate emotional support should call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
