A local mental health crisis hotline is adding two additional overnight counselors after call volume climbed nearly 40% over the past year, according to figures released by the nonprofit that operates the line.
Hotline directors say the increase reflects both growing awareness of the service and a broader rise in demand for mental health support across the region.
“We never want someone to call at 2 AM and get a busy signal,” said hotline director Jamal Whitfield. The additional staffing begins this month, funded through a combination of county grants and private donations.