In Crisis: Idaho's fragmented mental health system in 5 charts
Idaho Statesman (Boise)Oct 31, 2014
--Idahoans with mental illness lack options.
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--The justice system has become a mental health provider. Many Idahoans get the right kind of help only after they've been arrested. That cycle, too, repeats.
--The state's action plan for a better system includes carving out part of
Here are five other ways to look at
1. The spending
Mental health expenditures make up a smaller share of the total
2. The court orders
That spending decline coincides with a rising number of court-ordered involuntary commitments to the state psychiatric hospitals.
3. The emergency response
The number of people being put on a mental hold -- the first step in an involuntary commitment process -- also has increased. Mental holds are typically required when the person lacks a grasp on reality and refuses to seek help. Last fiscal year, 40 percent more Idahoans were placed on a mental hold than in 2008.
4. Those who can heal
5. The suicide rate
All of that undoubtedly contributes to the high rate of suicide in
"In Crisis" is a series produced in a collaboration between the
KNOW THE SIGNS OF MENTAL ILLNESS
If someone you know is in emotional crisis, call the Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.
Watch for these warning signs:
--Talking about wanting to die.
--Looking for a way to kill oneself.
--Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
--Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
--Talking about being a burden to others.
--Increasing use of alcohol or drugs.
--Acting anxiously, agitatedly or recklessly.
--Sleeping too little or too much.
--Withdrawing or isolating oneself.
--Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
--Extreme mood swings.
Other things you can do to help:
--Do not leave the person alone.
--Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.
--Listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings.
--Be nonjudgmental. Don't debate. Don't lecture on the value of life.
--Don't act shocked. That will put distance between you.
--Don't be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.
--Offer hope that alternatives are available, but do not offer glib reassurance.
--Take action. Remove means, such as guns, sharp objects or stockpiled pills.
--Get help by calling the hotline or visiting SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.
--Take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional.
Source: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline,
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