Calling the children's mental health crisis line can feel really heavy, but know that it's a courageous and responsible step towards getting the support needed for you and your family. The crisis line is there to help, guide, and make sure everyone feels safe.
When should you call a children’s mental health crisis line?
You should consider calling a children's mental health crisis line for your neurodivergent child if they are experiencing significant distress or exhibiting behaviors that are causing concern or posing a risk to themselves or others. This might include severe anxiety attacks, emotional meltdowns, self-harming behaviors, suicidal thoughts or actions, extreme agitation, or any other signs of acute psychological distress.
Additionally, if you as a parent or caregiver feel overwhelmed or unsure about how to best support your neurodivergent child in a crisis situation, reaching out to a crisis line can provide you with guidance and assistance tailored to your child's specific needs. Remember, it's always better to seek help sooner rather than later when it comes to mental health crises.
What to expect when calling the crisis line:
When calling, they will ask some questions about what is going on.
They will review and have 2 social workers come to your home to assess the situation.
Once there, they take notes and offer some resources that can be helpful or recommend going to the hospital.
If the hospital is recommended, they may call ahead as well.
How to Contact the Minnesota Children’s Mental Health Crisis Line
For your local mobile crisis team, you can find your county's direct phone number at this link: https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/people-with-disabilities/health-care/childrens-mental-health/resources/crisis-contacts.jsp
You can also call or text 988 to talk to a team of professionals who can help you.