How to Help Your Neighbor in Times of Mental Crisis

Helping your neighbor can come in many forms, and sometimes it means stepping in as a bystander during mental health emergencies. One in 4 Americans live with a mental illness, and mentally ill people are more likely to experience police brutality.

But many times, calling the police can do more harm than good, especially for marginalized communities such as people of color and individuals with mental illnesses or disabilities. When these identities intersect, police intervention can become even more dangerous.

So what can you do instead of dialing 9-1-1?

There are plenty of places to call that will send trained individuals to the scene. Here’s a few Crisis Response Center numbers to add to your phone’s contact list.

• Temple University Hospital: 215-707-2577
• Einstein Medical Center: 215-951-8300
• Friends Hospital: 800-899-0548 (toll-free) or 215-831-4600 (local number)
• Hall-Mercer Community Mental Health Center: 215-829-3461
• Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services:

24/7 emergency hotline: 215-685-6440

24/7 suicide prevention and crisis intervention: 215-686-4420