TISDALE — The Tisdale RCMP have responded to seven Mental Health Act calls in the last two weeks – six of those related to suicide prevention.
The RCMP are typically called when someone is believed to be a threat to themselves. They then transport the person to the local hospital to be accessed. Charges are not laid.
Cpl. Mike Benjamin with the Tisdale RCMP said six of the calls were due to someone exhibiting suicidal behaviors, and one call was relating to general concern for a person's mental wellbeing.
While Mental Health Act calls are up, reported crime has decreased.
From April 29 to May 13 the Tisdale RCMP responded to 49 calls for service, which included two intoxicated drivers who were reported and charged, two traffic collisions and two missing persons who were quickly located.
When reached to comment on the increase of Mental Health Act calls, the Saskatchewan Health Authority wrote that without understanding the circumstances of the calls to the RCMP, it would be difficult to identify a specific reason for the increase from usual volumes based on a short time period.
“We do know that the current COVID-19 pandemic creates a situation that can increase anxiety, including when individuals are self-isolating,” the Health Authority said by email. “We encourage people to reach out to the available resources.”
The Saskatchewan Health Authority is limiting in-person appointments for non-emergent concerns, including mental health and addictions services. Staff are providing services through telephone and other online methods.
If someone has a concern, in Tisdale they can contact the Mental Health outpatient services at 306-873-3760. Individuals can also access services for urgent issues at an emergency department.
Individuals can also contact HealthLine 811, where people can speak with a mental health worker.
“Tisdale health teams inclusive of mental health and addictions are working together to ensure that client’s needs are monitored and addressed throughout this time,” the Health Authority wrote. “Mental health staff in Tisdale are also in regular contact with community agencies and partners, and community mental health nurses continue to do home visits and follow-up in the community.”
