Maryland advocates urge full funding for 988 mental health crisis hotline services

Maryland's mental health crisis response system is at a critical juncture, as advocates urge the General Assembly to secure funding for the 988 helpline and mobile crisis services. During a recent Appropriations Committee session, stakeholders highlighted the essential role of 988 in providing immediate support to individuals in distress, emphasizing that without adequate funding, the system could face severe setbacks.

Bridal Gordon from Everymind underscored the importance of the 988 service, which has seen a surge in demand since its launch in February 2022. "Last year, we responded to over 8,000 visitors, many of whom were concerned about loved ones," Gordon stated. She called for full funding for 988 services in the upcoming fiscal year, noting that the telecom fee could generate between $25 to $30 million annually to support these operations.

The session also featured testimonies from various mental health organizations, including the Mental Health Association of Maryland and NAMI Maryland. Dan Martin from the Mental Health Association stressed the need to preserve a 1% increase in provider reimbursement rates, citing a workforce crisis where nearly half of the mental health professionals are expected to leave the field in the next three years. "Providing competitive compensation is crucial," he said.

Jeffrey Schultz, a volunteer with NAMI, shared a personal story about the tragic loss of his son to suicide, highlighting the urgent need for effective mental health services. "The 988 helpline is saving lives and reducing the burden on 911 services," Schultz remarked, urging lawmakers to prioritize funding for these critical resources.

Steven Flynn, CEO of EyeMind Behavioral Health, echoed these sentiments, detailing the impact of mobile crisis teams in Prince George's County. He reported that their teams handled nearly 3,000 crisis calls last year, with a significant portion involving children and young adults. Flynn emphasized that without continued funding, their ability to respond effectively would be compromised.

As the session concluded, the message was clear: securing funding for 988 and mobile crisis services is vital for the well-being of Marylanders facing mental health challenges. The anticipated outcomes of these discussions could shape the future of mental health support in the state, ensuring that those in crisis receive the help they need.