Tools for Tough Moments: Support When a Tough Moment Feels Too Big
Written by: Michelle Gatewood, Deputy Executive Director of CONTACT Care Line.
Michelle first joined the organization as Clinical Training Manager, where she supported new crisis staff in building the skills and confidence needed to serve callers, texters, and chatters.
Sometimes emotional pain, fear, or overwhelm can rise so quickly that it’s hard to know what to do next. In those moments, it helps to know there are real people whose job is to show up with calm, compassion, and practical support. Mobile crisis is one of those supports. It’s a service designed to help when emotions or safety concerns feel too intense to handle alone.
What is mobile crisis?
Mobile crisis teams are made up of trained mental health professionals who respond to people experiencing a mental health crisis. Their role is to listen, understand what’s happening, help de-escalate the situation, and work with you to figure out next steps. The focus of mobile crisis responders is not judgment or punishment; instead, they work to help you or a loved one feel safer, calmer, and more supported during a difficult moment.
How does mobile crisis work?
In many communities, mobile crisis teams can meet someone where they are. They can respond to a home, school, or another safe location in the community. The goal is to bring support directly to the person seeking help, rather than expecting them to navigate a crisis on their own.
How can I connect with mobile crisis?
One way to connect with mobile crisis is by calling or texting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. When you reach out to 988, you’ll first speak with a trained crisis counselor who will listen and help you talk through what’s going on. In many situations, the counselor can help resolve the crisis right on the phone. If additional in-person support would be helpful, they may help coordinate a mobile crisis team to come to you.
What’s the difference between mobile crisis and 988?
Mobile Crisis and 988 work closely together, but they serve slightly different roles. 988 provides immediate support by phone, text, or chat, while Mobile Crisis teams provide in-person support when a situation may benefit from someone being there physically. Both are designed to help people through difficult emotional moments with care, respect, and compassion.
You don’t have to face overwhelming moments alone. Knowing that services like 988 and Mobile Crisis exist gives you another tool for a tough moment and one rooted in connection, support, and the belief that help should be available when people need it most.
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