What should members of a coordinating group with mental health backgrounds do to assist call takers?

Developing a concise list of useful questions is critical for call takers when handling mental health-related calls. This is because effective communication can significantly impact the outcome of a call. A focused list of questions can guide call takers in gathering essential information, assessing the caller's situation, and identifying the best course of action to support the individual in crisis.

By having a set of predetermined questions, call takers can ensure that they address the most pressing issues, such as the individual's immediate safety, the nature of their mental health concerns, and any imminent risks. This structured approach helps in gathering pertinent information quickly, facilitating a more efficient response from mental health professionals when necessary.

Creating a detailed checklist of administrative tasks may be helpful for organizational purposes but does not directly assist call takers in engaging with callers effectively or in crisis management. Providing personal counseling support may not be appropriate in the context of a call center, as it requires specific therapeutic skills best handled by trained mental health professionals in a one-on-one setting. Conducting regular mental health evaluations, while beneficial for staff, does not assist call takers in their immediate responsibilities during calls.