Revolutionizing Crisis Care: How Indiana Mental Health Centers are Diverting Individuals from Jails and Hospitals

JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. – A recent study highlights the impact of mental health crisis services in Indiana. These services not only help individuals in crisis, but they also save the state a lot of money.

The research from Blue & Co., shared by the Indiana Council of Community Mental Health Centers, reveals that crisis services save Indiana $45 million each year in jail costs. Additionally, they cut down healthcare expenses by around $80 million by reducing hospital visits.

One vital service in the region is LifeSpring Health Systems. This organization serves 11 counties in Southern Indiana and operates a 24/7 crisis call center.

LifeSpring has a mobile crisis team that works closely with law enforcement. When officers encounter someone in a mental health emergency, this team steps in to provide the necessary support.

Dr. Beth Keeney, LifeSpring’s CEO, points out that their team comprises individuals with experience in behavioral health and substance use. This mix of lived experience and training is crucial in handling diverse mental health situations.

In 2024, LifeSpring’s crisis call center fielded over 1,200 calls, and their mobile team responded to 160 incidents. They don’t just help in police situations; they also respond to calls from EMS, individuals in crisis, and family members seeking assistance.

LifeSpring also provides a crisis stabilization unit where individuals can stay for up to 24 hours. This space connects them to mental health treatment and helps them find their next steps. Last year, 187 people used this service, averaging a stay of 14 hours.

For example, if a young adult dealing with substance use struggles to find a place to stay, LifeSpring can offer support and guidance during this tough time.

Dr. Keeney emphasizes that having a dedicated place for those in crisis can prevent arrests. When law enforcement can refer someone to LifeSpring, it benefits not just the individual but the entire community.

LifeSpring serves over 14,000 people each year, offering a variety of behavioral health services, regardless of their ability to pay.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, LifeSpring’s crisis line is available at 833-SAFE-988.