When to Call a Designated Crisis Responder (DCR): A Guide for Families
Navigating a mental health crisis involving a loved one can be overwhelming and emotional. In King County, families can turn to Designated Crisis Responders (DCRs) for support during these critical moments. DCRs are licensed mental health professionals who assess individuals experiencing severe behavioral health crises and determine whether intervention, including involuntary treatment, is necessary to ensure safety. Here's what you need to know about when and how to call a DCR.
What Does a DCR Do?
DCRs are trained to evaluate mental health emergencies, particularly when someone poses a risk to themselves or others due to a mental health or substance use disorder. They operate under Washington State’s Involuntary Treatment Act (ITA) to determine if someone meets the criteria for involuntary hospitalization or outpatient treatment. Their role is to balance the individual's rights with the safety of the person and the community.
When to Call a DCR
You should consider contacting a DCR if your loved one:
Presents an Imminent Danger to Themselves: This includes threats or attempts of suicide or other self-harm behaviors.
Presents an Imminent Danger to Others: This may involve violent or aggressive actions or credible threats to harm others.
Exhibits Severe Mental Health Symptoms: Symptoms such as paranoia, hallucinations, or extreme agitation that significantly impair their ability to function or understand reality.
Is Unable to Meet Basic Needs: If your loved one is neglecting their basic needs (e.g., food, shelter, medication) due to mental health disorder, and their health or safety is at risk.
Refuses Necessary Treatment: When an individual needs psychiatric care but refuses help, a DCR may assess whether involuntary intervention is appropriate.
How to Reach a DCR in Your County
Review the DCR Contact List to find your local support. In emergencies, always call 911 and request a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) officer trained to handle mental health crises.
What to Expect During a DCR Assessment
When a DCR responds, they will:
Conduct a face-to-face evaluation of the individual in crisis.
Speak with family members, caregivers, or witnesses to gather relevant information.
Determine if the person meets the criteria for involuntary treatment under the ITA.
Arrange for transportation to a treatment facility if hospitalization is required.
How Families Can Prepare
To help the DCR, be prepared to provide:
A detailed record of your loved one’s behaviors and statements. Including photographs as collateral can sometimes be helpful.
Relevant medical or mental health history.
Contact information for their treatment providers, if applicable.
Crisis Prevention Tips
While DCRs provide vital support during emergencies, it’s also important to focus on prevention. Encourage open communication about mental health, create a safety plan with your loved one, and connect with local mental health resources, such as counseling or peer support programs.
Final Thoughts
Designated Crisis Responders play a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals in mental health crises. If you’re in King County and face an urgent situation, don’t hesitate to call for help. DCRs provide a compassionate, professional response to guide families and individuals toward stability and recovery.
By understanding when and how to seek their support, you can help protect your loved one and connect them to the care they need.