Healthy Living
Navigating the mental health care system is challenging for patients, families and providers. A new resource based at Children’s of Alabama helps to bridge this gap for parents. The Psychiatric Intake Response Center (PIRC) is a collaboration between Children’s of Alabama and the Anne B. LaRussa Foundation for Hope. PIRC Director Cindy Jones says, “PIRC provides resources to any adult caller and we have more than 1,300 resources in the state of Alabama.”
The PIRC is only one of three of its kind in the country. When a parent has concerns about their child, they are able to call PIRC confidentially. Licensed mental health clinicians trained to assess a child or teen’s emotional and behavioral needs answer the calls. “If someone calls the PIRC, we are able to briefly assess the situation and point them in the direction of resources in the community,” Jones says. PIRC does not provide over the phone diagnoses.
Jones says parents should watch for signs of mental distress:
- Isolating themselves
- Changes in eating habits
- Weight changes
- Changes in sleeping habits
- Mood swings
Children and teens shouldn’t suffer alone. There are hundreds of resources available in the state of Alabama to help families navigate through difficult situations and offer them support. PIRC is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Any adult with a mental health question or concern regarding their child is encouraged to call 205-638-7472. In the event of a crisis situation, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. †
