Lexington Launches Crisis Response Team to Improve Mental Health Emergency Services

Lexington, Ky. — The city of Lexington is launching a new initiative to address mental health emergencies through the establishment of a crisis response team. This program pairs licensed professional counselor Christopher Perrine with local first responders and paramedicine units to provide essential support during mental health crises.

The need for such a program arises from the unpredictable nature of mental health emergencies. During 911 calls, mental health concerns often go unrecognized, which is where Perrine’s role becomes crucial. “So the normal coping mechanisms and skills that they would initially use just aren’t working for the situation they’re in,” he explained. “My main role is to help de-escalate the situation and connect resources.”

This initiative is part of a broader state funding effort, with Lexington receiving a share of nearly $850,000 allocated to seven cities by the state’s Department for Medicaid Services. This funding will support the creation and expansion of crisis response teams throughout Kentucky. Perrine emphasized that the program allows him to connect with individuals on a personal level, stating, “I don’t have to be anything that I’m not… I can just be human and talk to an individual like a human.”

Fire Department Captain Seth Lockard, who played a key role in forming Lexington’s paramedicine team, is also optimistic about the new approach. The city aims to provide assistance within 72 hours following a crisis call. “We’re starting four days a week. Four days is better than zero days,” Lockard noted, highlighting their strategic use of data to determine peak service times.

Lockard further pointed out that lack of access to healthcare resources often aggravates mental health crises. Simple barriers, such as not having a primary care doctor or access to medication, can lead to significant issues for individuals in need.

Perrine views his role as more than just a professional duty; it is a chance to give back to the community, stating, “The values my parents instilled in me to always give back, this is my way of giving that back to them.” Although he recognizes the limitations of his current involvement, he is hopeful that increased program effectiveness will justify the need for expansion in the future. Perrine is expected to take on the official position by the end of 2024, emphasizing the importance of this early-stage initiative.