SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - In the heart of Sacramento County, a team of compassionate professionals is reshaping the way that mental health crises are addressed.

The Community Wellness Response Team, staffed by trained behavioral health professionals, provides trauma-informed crisis response, ensuring that those in need receive care without law enforcement intervention.

Every call that Community Wellness Response Team members answer highlights the significant impact that they have on individuals in distress. 

Earlier this year, a middle-aged man called, overwhelmed by depression and frustrated from waiting weeks for medication. He had reached a breaking point. He called 988, desperate for help after learning his next medical appointment was still three weeks away. He was angry and ready to end his life. 

At the time of the call, he was outside of City Hall and had a plan to provoke an officer so they could help “end it all.” He hung up the call. 

Community Wellness Response Team’s mental health counselors sprang into action, meeting the caller at City Hall. Through patient conversation, Community Wellness Response Team specialists provided the support that the overwhelmed man needed to de-escalate, ultimately transporting him to a mental health urgent-care clinic where he could receive immediate care. By simply showing up and listening, the team changed the course of his life.

This is just one of the thousands of individuals finding hope in moments of despair from the Community Wellness Response Team. From individuals struggling with anxiety, facing loneliness and suicidal ideation to overcoming addiction, the team has been a beacon of support.

“The biggest success is saving lives,” said Alexsandria Lose, the Community Wellness Response Team’s mental-health program coordinator. “Every day, we remind people that they are not alone.”

​The work is not without its challenges but the rewards far outweigh them.

“Every day is an honor to serve,” Lose added. “We support each other as a team, and together, we’ve helped over 1,000 callers find a path forward.” 

For those facing mental health struggles, the message is clear: Community Wellness Response Team is here 24 hours a day, seven days a week. By dialing 988 anytime, residents can reach this dedicated team that is ready to help, free of judgment and full of compassion. ​In Sacramento County, hope is just a call away.