Who to Call for Mental Health Crisis: Alternatives to the Police

I. Introduction

Mental health crises can be traumatic and overwhelming experiences, but unfortunately, many people still rely on the police as their first point of contact when dealing with these emergencies. However, police officers are not always equipped to handle these complex situations and their involvement can often escalate the situation, leading to unnecessary harm.

II. Why Police Aren’t Always the Answer in a Mental Health Crisis

Police officers receive little to no training on how to handle mental health crises which leads to a lack of understanding and empathy in such situations. There have been numerous cases where police have responded poorly, excessively using force, and even killing people experiencing mental health crises.

III. The Importance of Mental Health Crisis Hotlines

Knowing who to call during a mental health crisis can be a lifesaver. Mental health hotlines, operated by trained and licensed professionals, provide support, guidance, and a listening ear in times of crisis. They can also offer referrals to other resources for further support. Individuals can call crisis lines for themselves or on behalf of someone else.

Benefits of calling a mental health hotline instead of police include a confidential and non-judgmental space to talk about the issue, having access to specially trained professionals to give guidance, and a sense of empowerment and control over the situation.

IV. 5 Mental Health Crisis Resources to Have on Speed Dial

Here are five crisis resources that can be used instead of the police:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
NAMI Helpline: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
The Trevor Project (LGBTQ-specific): 1-866-488-7386
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) helpline: 1-800-662-4357

V. What to Do When a Loved One is Experiencing a Mental Health Emergency

If you suspect that a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, it’s important to respond calmly and supportively. One of the most important things you can do is to listen without judgment. Offer your unconditional support and let them know you are there for them.

If you feel that their safety is at risk, encourage them to seek professional help or offer to help access crisis resources. If the situation becomes urgent and you feel out of your depth, seek the help of a mental health professional, who can guide you through the next steps.

VI. How Mental Health First Aid Training Can Help in Crisis Situations

Mental Health First Aid training is a vital step for those working or dealing with people experiencing mental health issues. The training course covers topics such as crisis and suicide intervention, understanding mental health disorders, and how to help someone who is in distress navigate the mental health system.

Mental Health First Aid training can be useful for individuals, families, schools, and workplaces.

VII. The Rise of Mental Health Crisis Response Teams Across the Country

In response to the limitations of police involvement in mental health emergencies, some cities in the United States are creating crisis intervention teams to address mental health crises. These teams are composed of mental health professionals and peer support specialists trained in de-escalation, crisis response, and resource navigation.

The success of these programs has led to the expansion of similar programs in other cities.

VIII. The Need for a Different Approach: Community-Based Solutions for Mental Health Crises

Community-based programs can help provide solutions to mental health crises. Peer support specialists, social workers, and other mental health professionals are familiar with the local community and can help connect those in crisis with resources and support they may not know was available.

Community-based solutions also promote a sense of trust and safety, as community members are more likely to respond to those they know and trust.

IX. Conclusion

Mental health crises can be overwhelming, but there are resources available. By understanding the importance of mental health hotlines, the benefits of mental health first aid training, and the availability of community-based solutions, we can better address mental health emergencies. It’s important to raise awareness about these resources and support the programs that can make a difference.

Together, we can reduce the stigma surrounding mental health crises and improve the outcomes for those who experience them.