Calls for mental health resources are on the rise in Stanislaus County, but a shortage in mental health clinicians to answer them all is posing a challenge. Mental health experts say people are often waiting weeks to months on end just to be seen by a clinician after making an appointment, but providing immediate help can be critical, especially in times of crisis. Experts say call volume has gone up in the last few years, in part because of the COVID-19 pandemic but also because of a rise in alcohol and drug abuse. The problem? There aren’t enough professionals in the field to respond to all of them quickly. More here: http://www.kcra.com/article/stanislaus-county-tries-new-approach-to-address-need-for-mental-health-clinicians/43897863