Community Links

Lake County’s Crisis Care Program and Text-a-Tip available 24/7

Lake County, Ill. — According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is now the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, resulting in nearly 45,000 deaths in 2016 alone. Suicide is also the 10th leading cause of death in Lake County and is a growing public health problem that affects all genders and ages. Help is available in Lake County. There are many resources for those experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of suicide.

The Lake County Health Department’s Crisis Care Program offers a free, confidential hotline for anyone experiencing a mental crisis at (847) 377-8088. Crisis Care Program counselors are also available in person at 3002 Grand Avenue, Waukegan, Illinois. People wishing to speak with a counselor can call or simply walk in, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

“A mental health crisis could include overwhelming depression, thoughts of suicide, poor concentration, disturbing thoughts, or feeling out of control,” said Joe Tranchita, Crisis Care Program Coordinator for the Health Department. “We can help you understand what is going on, help you explore your options, offer support, and suggest resources that you might need.”
The Crisis Care Program also has a Respite Crisis Stabilization Unit where people in crisis can come and stay for one to two weeks. Respite helps a person in crisis find more effective ways to cope through daily groups and meetings with a psychiatrist.
Lake County also offers Text-a-Tip, an anonymous text-communication system for youth needing mental health assistance. The “Lake County Help” smartphone app, available for free download in the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, allows you to send a message and get an immediate response from a licensed clinician.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255 is another great resource for those in need. The Lifeline provides free, 24/7 confidential support. The Lifeline is committed to advancing suicide prevention, along with improving crisis services.
It is important to know the warning signs of suicide. Most people who end up taking their lives exhibit warning signs, either through what they say or what they do. If you’re concerned about someone, talk to them. Ask, “Are you thinking about suicide?” Let them know help is available and assist them in getting help if they need it.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, look to these resources for help:
• Call the Crisis Care Program at (847) 377-8088;
• Walk in for assistance at 3002 Grand Avenue, Waukegan, Illinois;
• Download the “Lake County Help” app and send a Text-a-Tip message for an immediate response from a licensed clinician;
• Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255
• Call 9-1-1.