At 12:30 pm on Gallia Street, a woman staggered into the Portsmouth Fire Department declaring she was dying. But what unfolded was not a typical medical emergency—it was a mental health crisis.
Witnesses say the woman was speaking in nonstop gibberish, clearly in distress. Instead of dismissing her, firefighters and officers acted quickly, ensuring she was safely transported to a local mental health crisis center where trained professionals could step in.
👮♂️🚑 First Responders: The Unsung Frontline of Mental Health
This case shows the other side of emergency work—when police, EMS, and firefighters become social workers, protectors, and lifelines for people battling mental illness.
The woman, no stranger to police, had once been arrested for using a weapon while intoxicated and disorderly conduct. But those charges were dismissed after she completed a first offenders program. Today, instead of punishment, she received help.
🙏 Why This Matters
Mental health crises are happening in our communities every single day. And too often, it’s our first responders—not therapists—who are the first to face them. They’re walking into unpredictable situations, never sure if they’re meeting a patient, a victim, or a potential threat.
Yet, time after time, they rise to the challenge.
💡 What To Do If A Loved One Is Struggling
📞 Don’t wait — If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
🧭 Know local resources — Familiarize yourself with crisis centers and hotlines in your area.
💬 Listen, don’t judge — Sometimes the most important thing is being heard.
🚫 Avoid confrontation — Stay calm and avoid escalating the situation.
If you or someone you love is struggling, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 at 988.