HOW TO NAVIGATE GETTING HELP

1. Call 911 if you or a loved one is in immediate danger of hurting themselves or others. They can also determine what hospital is best equipped to help you.
 

2. Call the local Journey Mental Health CRISIS LINE at 608-280-2600 and speak with a trained professional to learn how to handle the situation, where to go or who to call. 

It can be daunting to figure out where to turn, what to do and how you can get help. This guide will give you some direction. Politely advocate for yourself; calmly ask questions and be honest about what you or a loved one are going through. The doctors and nurses are there to help you and can provide non-judgmental guidance.

PLEASE GO THROUGH THESE SIMPLE STEPS TO DETERMINE HOW TO NAVIGATE GETTING HELP:

If NO, contact Recovery Dane at  608-237-1661 or visit their website through Dane County Department of Human Services HERE.

They will walk you through where you can go, where you can call and will provide you with the answers you need. They are open Monday – Friday from 9am to 3pm.

If YES, go to the next question.

 If NO, contact your insurance company

1. Let them know you have an immediate need
2. Ask for help in finding a doctor / clinic
3. Ask what hospital / emergency room is covered by your insurance
4. Contact the doctor’s office. Tell them you are a NEW PATIENT and need to see a doctor ASAP
5. Ask to speak to a nurse and explain that you have an urgent need
   

NOTE: They MAY suggest to go to the Emergency Room for immediate help. If this happens, explain this to  the emergency room people who check you or your loved one in and say, “I am in the middle of a mental health crisis and need to be seen.”

If YES, call your clinic and ask to speak to a nurse. Explain that it is urgent.

1. Explain to the nurse in detail what is going on and that you need immediate help
2. Answer all questions 
3. Follow the recommendations on how to get help