In an effort to properly route the most appropriate resources to emergencies, the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health has launched the Who Do I Call for Help? campaign in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Los Angeles Police Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department, Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and 211 LA.

This initiative aims to increase awareness of various 24-hour resources available to the community and define what each can specifically provide to assist residents, especially during emergencies and behavioral health-related crises.

The 9-1-1 line is for life-threatening emergencies and enables callers to request rapid assistance with medical, mental health and crime-related emergencies. Callers call 9-1-1 when law enforcement, firefighters, or paramedics are needed. The 9-8-8 line is available to provide support to individuals in mental distress, who may be having suicidal ideation. The DMH Help Line 800-854-7771, is also available to provide support and information to individuals who may require a crisis response team in response to a mental health crisis. This is the gateway to mental health services in Los Angeles County. 2-1-1 is a general information line that provides up to date resources, linkages and referrals to a variety of services.

More information on the campaign can be viewed here.