There were 148 calls received by Pitkin County Dispatch in 2023 that had a mental health professional respond on-scene, according to a Monday news release.
Pitkin County Public Health this week celebrates its local co-responder program, the Pitkin Area Co-Responder Team. It also recognizes national co-responder and crisis responder week, Sept. 16-21.
According to the county, law enforcers pair up with these clinicians for calls involving substance abuse or mental health.
The objective of this partnership? To decriminalize mental illness and improve access for people struggling with mental health or substance abuse. Of the 31,332 total dispatched calls in Pitkin county in 2023, 648 were behavioral health-related, according to the Pitkin Area Co-Responder Team annual report.
The calls have also led to 159 referrals for the Pitkin Area Co-Responder Team, as well as 1,738 follow ups with individuals after a Pitkin Area Co-Responder Team encounter or referral.
"PACT aims to improve outcomes for clients, address health barriers and inequities, and enhance coordinated responses to behavioral health needs," the release states. "In 2023, PACT served 288 individuals and conducted 1,738 follow-ups. The team also provides harm reduction services, including distributing fentanyl test strips, naloxone, and offering interventions for substance use reduction and health education."
Those in immediate crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or reach the Aspen Hope Centers' 24/7 Hopeline. Walk-in hours at Mind Springs Aspen Office are 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday or call 970-920-5555.