AT a Rotary Club of Saipan meeting at Crowne Plaza on Aug. 22, Dr. Glenda George, director of behavioral health services at the Community Guidance Center, said community members can call 988 if they need emergency mental health support.
George said 988 is the mental health equivalent of dialing 911 for emergency medical services.
She said one of the functions of the call line is to provide urgent mental healthcare to those considering suicide, but it is also for people experiencing “a situation they need to talk about.”
Callers can speak to local mental health advocates from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
After 4:30 p.m., callers are directed to the national emergency mental health line, George said.
“Recognize the importance of mental health in yourself and in others — it’s the first step,” she said. “You start by caring about yourself. These are the kinds of things that people can’t do for you, so it’s important that you are the driver, the owner of your mental health.”
Rotary Club of Saipan President Irene Holl said George’s appearance at their meeting comes at a time of increased encouragement from Rotary Club International for local club chapters to focus on mental health advocacy.
Dr. Glenda George speaks about mental health services offered by the Community Guidance Center
