Mental Health Crisis
If you or someone you know is currently experiencing a mental health crisis or is at risk of suicide, call Northwest Connections at 1-888-552-6642. This crisis line is available 24/7 to Chippewa County residents.
When you call, a trained crisis worker will assess the situation and help determine the most appropriate response, which may include:
- Safety planning in the community
- Consultation with care providers, law enforcement, or family members
- In-person evaluation by a mobile crisis responder
- Voluntary inpatient admission
- Emergency detention (involuntary hospitalization)
Crisis workers will ask for key information such as the nature of the crisis, the individual's background, safety concerns, and current supports. This helps guide the most appropriate and timely response.
Prevent Suicide Manual (PDF)
After the Crisis: Support and Follow-Up
Following a crisis call, the Chippewa County Department of Human Services (DHS) provides follow-up services, including:
- Referrals to community resources
- Ongoing support and care coordination
- Collaboration with hospitals, law enforcement, and service providers
Our goal is to ensure that each individual receives the support they need to move toward recovery, using evidence-based practices and recovery-oriented values - emphasizing choice, hope, respect, and collaboration.
After a Suicide Attempt Guide (PDF)
Outpatient and Substance Use Services
Outpatient Mental Health Services
Chippewa County DHS offers limited outpatient mental health services for individuals who are already working with a county case manager. Services are based on assessed needs and available resources.
Substance Use Services
Substance use services are available for individuals who:
- Cannot afford treatment elsewhere
- Are referred by Chippewa County DHS
Support is based on a professional assessment and the individual's readiness for change. Services may include counseling, treatment coordination, and linkage to recovery resources.
To learn more about statewide substance use resources, visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services: Substance Use Disorders.
Court-Ordered Commitments
Mental Health and Alcohol Commitments
In certain cases, involuntary treatment (also known as a commitment) may be required for individuals who pose a danger to themselves or others due to mental illness or substance use. Chippewa County provides service facilitation for residents under Mental Health Commitments or Alcohol Commitments.
Involuntary Commitment Criteria
In Wisconsin, a person may be committed if they meet specific legal criteria, such as:
- Recent threats or attempts at suicide or violence
- A pattern of behavior that indicates a risk of serious harm or inability to meet basic needs
- Habitual alcohol use that endangers health, safety, or functioning
Commitments must be supported by clear and convincing evidence.
Three-Party Petitions
A three-party petition may be filed to initiate an involuntary commitment. This requires three adults with direct, first-hand knowledge of the person's behavior to provide detailed written statements describing recent incidents or concerns (within the last year). Petitioners must also be willing to testify in court, if needed.