The negative thoughts raced through Amber's head.  She had a history of mental health struggles and had recently stopped taking the medications that helped to calm her.

She knew she could receive support by calling 2-1-1. She grabbed her cell phone and was immediately connected to an intervention specialist at the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. Amber let the specialist know she had recently gone through some bad romantic relationships, was feeling used by people, and was struggling with thoughts of self-harm.

The specialist listened attentively, asked additional questions, and worked with Amber to develop a safety plan. She also connected Amber to Dan, the Healthy Transitions care coordinator at the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.

Over a series of phone calls, Dan worked with Amber to provide the support she needed to improve her mental health. He followed up with her and asked if she had been able to take some walks by the river and watch some of her favorite television programs, both self-care activities included in her safety plan.

He also connected her to resources at Success 4 Kids & Families, where she learned the importance of taking care of her own needs before taking care of others. Since she was living with her older sister, she also learned about setting goals that would help her be more financially independent.

In her final conversations with Dan, Amber communicated she was no longer having thoughts of self-harm. She was receiving ongoing mental healthcare and saving money to purchase a car and start attending college.

Thanks to Crisis Center donors and funders, Amber was able to find help during her crisis. Your support provides people in our community with 24-hour access to emotional care and community resources!