Calls to Arizona’s crisis lines are spiking. 

Solari Crisis and Human Services has seen an uptick in calls to the 844-534-HOPE and 988 crisis lines we operate for the state.

Calls for help increased by 22% to one line and by 10% to the other from December 2022 to January 2023, and have remained at those higher rates for the last six months.

That equates to about 40,000 crisis calls per month.

We anticipate these trends continuing into 2024, stressing the need for proactive measures to prioritize self-care, build meaningful social connections, monitor social media consumption and setting attainable day-to-day goals to help individuals manage their mental well-being.

Why did calls for help increase?

It also underscores why crisis lines are so important.

People call for many reasons — mostly, to talk through ideas of self-harm and suicide, social concerns and coordination of care — but that highlights the diverse range of challenges individuals face and the critical role crisis lines play in providing assistance.

While the increase in calls may initially seem concerning, Solari views it as a positive because it suggests that more individuals are reaching out for help, for themselves and others.

This may be attributed to a growing awareness of mental health concerns and a decrease in the stigma surrounding seeking help.

Staffed 24/7 by both English- and Spanish-speaking professionally trained crisis specialists in Arizona, our crisis lines at Solari have proven to be invaluable resources.

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In 2023, we received an average of more than 43,000 calls per month, with an average answer time of less than 10 seconds.

Nearly 80% of the time, our crisis specialists were able to stabilize situations over the phone, with a small percentage resulting in discreet mobile crisis teams being dispatched for face-to-face assistance.

988 line is not just for emergencies

When someone calls, texts or chats 988, our crisis specialists ask for the caller’s name and date of birth, but callers may remain anonymous if they choose. The specialist will then confirm the caller is safe and ask what kind of support is needed.

The information shared by the caller is private and confidential.

I want to emphasize that our lines are not just for emergencies but are available 24/7/365 for anyone experiencing difficult times. Beyond crisis intervention, a call can provide ongoing support and connections to numerous resources.

As a nonprofit operating with state and federal funding along with contributions from public and private donors in the community, Solari continues to provide these critical crisis services at no cost.

Let’s make 2024 the year we don’t just talk about mental wellness, but we prioritize it and celebrate the little wins we have each day. Set attainable goals and stick to them.

But when and if the need arises, crisis lines are there to answer your call or text when you need additional support.

Justin Chase is CEO of Solari Crisis and Human Services. On X, formerly Twitter, @justinchaseaz.