Mississippi leads the nation in answering in-state calls to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, with 98% of nearly 12,000 calls in the first half of the fiscal year answered by Mississippi call centers, according to the Mississippi Department of Mental Health.
The state has ramped up its suicide prevention efforts through expanded call centers, crisis intervention training, and conferences. The Mississippi Department of Mental Health recently launched a Crisis Intervention Team Leadership Class and hosted a conference titled “Strengthening Crisis Care,” aimed at improving crisis response strategies.
Law enforcement agencies participate in Crisis Intervention Teams (CITs) equipped to deescalate situations involving individuals with mental health issues. State legislation requires agencies of a certain size to have at least one CIT-trained officer, with some opting for multiple officers across shifts. The new leadership training focuses on executive officers, emphasizing de-escalation, recruitment, retention, and internal CIT program development.
Brent Hurley, director of the Bureau of Crisis Services, said the leadership class is a pivotal step in advancing crisis intervention in Mississippi. “When law enforcement leaders are committed and equipped, the entire community benefits,” he said.
MDMH’s inaugural crisis response conference drew more than 160 attendees. Participants learned about equitable crisis response, care continuum tracing, and resources for ongoing mental health support. Wendy Bailey, MDMH executive director, highlighted the national shift toward comprehensive crisis care models that ensure support is accessible when and where needed.
Calling 988 connects individuals in crisis with trained personnel who can provide assistance or connect callers with long-term resources. The service is free and confidential. Bailey praised Mississippi’s call centers, noting their record response rate and the impact of caring, trained responders on the community.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
