Mental Health Foundation: confidential crisis line available 24hrs for adults and children

GREAT BAY--The Mental Health Foundation (MHF) is reminding residents of St. Maarten that confidential emergency mental health assistance is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, through its dedicated crisis line at +1 (721) 585-5556. The service is available to both adults and children experiencing a mental health emergency, with trained professionals on call to provide in-person assistance when necessary.

The reminder comes as the Foundation continues commemorating its 25th anniversary and observing World Mental Health Day, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and ensuring residents know where to turn when urgent psychiatric assistance is needed.

According to MHF, individuals experiencing a mental health crisis do not need a referral to access emergency support. The Foundation maintains an on-call team consisting of a psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse and registered nurse/case manager who can respond through its mobile crisis response service.

The emergency service is intended for situations involving individuals at risk of harming themselves or others. MHF emphasized that the dedicated crisis number is not a general telephone counseling or conversation service, but a direct point of contact for emergency mental health intervention.

MHF Medical Director and psychiatrist Hendrikus van Gaalen stressed that mental health awareness and personal well-being should remain priorities throughout the year, rather than receiving attention only during designated awareness activities.

"We must remember, crises are temporary, but the effects may become long-lasting if someone does not receive early support, intervention and care when needed. Never be afraid to call for help. Call our crisis line directly for an immediate response," Van Gaalen stated.

The Foundation's message highlights the importance of recognizing when professional intervention is necessary and seeking assistance before a mental health emergency escalates. Early support can play an important role in protecting individuals experiencing a crisis and helping them access appropriate care.

Founded on October 10, 2001, by the Government of St. Maarten, the Mental Health Foundation began as a psychiatric crisis response facility. Over the past 25 years, its services have expanded to include therapy sessions, day treatment, short- and long-term residential care, and community-based mental health support.

Today, MHF also operates a mobile crisis response team and four community wellness offices, allowing residents to access certain services closer to their homes.

The Foundation continues to focus on crisis prevention, improving access to mental healthcare and reducing the negative effects of mental health conditions on individuals, families and the wider community.

MHF reiterated that residents requiring immediate, in-person emergency mental health assistance should contact the confidential crisis line at +1 (721) 585-5556, which operates around the clock.

For general inquiries or information about the Foundation's other services, residents can contact MHF at +1 (721) 542-1677 during regular business hours or visit www.mhf.sx.

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