Perspectives in Mental Health Crisis is a four-part series examining the experiences of Certified Peer Specialists (CPS) as they navigate, utilize, and provide crisis services. On-demand recordings from each session are accessible below. As an additional resource, please view our accompanying "Peer Perspectives: Navigating, Utilizing and Providing Crisis Services" Infographic. 

Defining a Mental Health Crisis

• On-demand recording available! The first session, “Defining a Mental Health Crisis,” featured a discussion by Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network and guest panelists on how different groups of people define and use the words "mental health crisis" and how these different understandings impact outcomes.

Peer Experiences in Mental Health Crisis

• On-demand recording available! In part 2 of this series, the facilitators and panel discuss the differing peer perspectives on and experiences with crisis, explain strategies for preventing and managing crises, and provide crisis support resources.

Decriminalizing Mental Health Crisis

• On-demand recording available! In part 3 of this series, peer panelists discuss the factors that have contributed to the criminalization of mental health issues and identify strategies that can help communities to decriminalize mental illness, including diversion, co-responding, and forensic peer mentoring. 

Alternatives for Preventing & Responding to Crisis

• On-demand recording available! In part 4 of this series, our facilitators and panelists provide insight into how to avoid or lessen the negative impact of a mental health crisis. Peers share firsthand their hardships and how they were able to hold onto the things that mattered most to them, such as employment, housing, and relationships. In closing, several highly experienced and well-regarded trainers share formal skills peers can develop to enhance their resilience and prepare for the next situation life throws at them.