Crisis Services

In your darkest moments, you are not alone.

Please note: If you or someone you know is at risk of endangering themselves or another, please call 988 immediately. You may also call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline 24 hours a day at 1-800-273-8255.

Crisis response is provided by HSS staff on a 24-hour/seven day a week basis for crises involving the mental health or substance abuse problems of any individual within Monroe County.

Individuals, families or outside agencies, such as law enforcement or medical providers, may contact HSS as emergencies arise.

Our staff will provide assessment of the emergency, offer consultation to caregivers, attempt stabilization or reunification efforts with family members, facilitate emergency hospitalization or placement if required. Follow-up care after the crisis is resolved is also available.

24-Hour Crisis Support

If you need urgent assistance outside of normal business hours, please contact your local law enforcement officials or dial 988. Law enforcement can connect you to a local crisis professional.

Intervention During Working Hours

During working hours, consumers can call the HSS office at (618) 939-4444 and receive immediate intervention for emergencies. Individuals can typically see a crisis worker within two hours of the call. Let the receptionist know that you are experiencing an emergency situation and you will be connected to a crisis worker immediately.

After-hours and Weekend Interventions

If you need urgent assistance outside of normal business hours, please contact your local law enforcement officials. Law enforcement can connect you to a local crisis professional.

Runaway/Lockout Response

HSS staff members are available 24 hours a day to provide counseling to runaway or lockout youth and their families in order to attempt reunification of the youth with their family. If such efforts fail, HSS staff will take charge to find a safe alternative. Law enforcement or other agencies can contact HSS using the main telephone number, 618-939-4444. After hours, or on weekends, call law enforcement to reach your local crisis worker.

Screening for Emergency Hospitalizations

HSS is called when individuals in the community are exhibiting behavior that seems dangerous and which might lead to harm to themselves or others. Our staff will evaluate whether hospitalization is necessary to prevent harm. If it is necessary, the staff will make arrangements for the individual’s admission, whether voluntary or involuntary. HSS is required to pre-screen all admissions from Monroe County to the state hospital system.