988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and the BH Link triage center are here to help you

You're not alone

By Rep. Julie A. Casimiro and Katie Anderson 

Rhode Islanders deserve timely access to lifesaving, affordable, high-quality mental health and substance use services. Historically, those in crisis, unsure where else to turn, have called 911 and have sought help at hospitals where they face long wait times and, often, a hefty bill. 

Thankfully, when stress runs high this holiday season, we can turn instead to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and the BH Link triage center. Together, these programs offer phone-based and in-person alternatives to 911 and hospital systems for those needing immediate support or timely referrals. 

Anyone in crisis – kids and adults alike – can call, text, or chat 988 any time, 24/7, for free and confidential emotional support, resources, and referrals. For immediate face-to-face support, adults 18 and over, regardless of insurance, can walk into BH Link – no appointment necessary. 

Depending on their needs, help-seekers will receive an assessment and safety plan, scripts for psychiatric medications; detoxification from opioids, alcohol or benzodiazepines; or a referral or transfer for ongoing care, with medical clearance and insurance authorization, as indicated. There are no out-of-pocket expenses associated with these visits. 

Everyone seeking care is greeted warmly and responsively in a safe, relaxed setting, with minimal wait times relative to crowded emergency rooms. Both 988 & BH Link can also serve those simply interested in learning more about what outpatient resources, like therapists, may best help them or their loved ones. 

Why aren’t more Rhode Islanders utilizing these services? We suspect there are two factors at play. 

First, BH Link & 988 remain Rhode Island’s best kept secrets, and we need to change that by spreading the word. Awareness of these services can literally save lives, and will relieve burdens on our dedicated first responders, law enforcement officers and hospital staff. 

Second, the location of BH Link (the brick-and-mortar, walk-in triage center) is in East Providence, and for many Rhode Islanders, that is literally a bridge too far. This proud stubbornness serves us well in so many ways, but when it comes to crisis care, perhaps it’s time to rethink this mindset. Yes, for some, this will require a longer drive, but BH Link provides 24/7 transportation, and while the journey may be a bit longer than the drive to your local hospital, the wait time for this specialized mental health care will undoubtably be significantly less.

Mental health care is for everyone. We know that, on average, one in four Americans will struggle with thoughts of suicide, and countless more are experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. If you or a loved one is struggling, or if you wonder how you may benefit from behavioral healthcare, know that you are not alone. There is help, and there is hope. Call, text, or chat 988, or walk into BH Link at 975 Waterman Ave., East Providence. 

Rep. Julie A. Casimiro, a Democrat, represents District 31 in North Kingstown and Exeter. She is the chairwoman of the House Oversight Subcommittee on Children and Families.  Katie Anderson is the Vice President of Acute Services for the Community Care Alliance.