Franklin County first responders learn about handling mental health calls

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Kevin Berthia knows more than most about how overwhelming life can be. Now, he's sharing his personal struggle with depression and mental health with Columbus and Franklin County first responders.

"It just kept getting worse and worse," said Berthia.

On March 11, 2005, Berthia found himself about to jump off the Golden Gate Bridge.

"It was the first day I woke up and I didn't have hope," he said. "I was a brand-new father, and I just lost my job."

But Kevin wasn't alone on that bridge. For 92 minutes, Sgt. Kevin Briggs talked to him and more importantly listened.

"Empathy is huge. Being able to put yourself in their shoes without taking on everything they've gone through. We don't know but being able to step back and try to calm this down, stretch that time out. Active listening skills take time," said retired California Highway Patrol sergeant, Kevin Briggs.

Briggs spent years convincing hundreds of people on the brink of jumping not to take that step. He earned the nickname, "Guardian of the Golden Gate Bridge."

As Columbus police respond to more and more mental health cases, they're hoping to make a difference with what they're learning today.

"Our numbers are going up and we are looking for alternative ways to respond," said Commander Dave Hughes.

But Berthia believes making a difference is simple.

"The only reason I'm here today, giving this interview,, is that someone took the time to really listen to what I had to say. That's just it. Two ears, one heart." Berthia said.