Mental Health Crisis Intervention Policy
Safety and Stabilization: Officers should prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals involved, including the person experiencing a mental health crisis and others in the vicinity. They should take immediate action to ensure a safe environment and minimize the risk of harm.
Effective Communication: Officers should use effective communication techniques when interacting with individuals in crisis. They should speak calmly, respectfully, and clearly, using non-threatening language and non-confrontational body language. Active listening and empathy can help establish trust and de-escalate the situation.
Crisis Assessment and Triage: Officers should assess the nature and severity of the mental health crisis, taking into account potential risks and the individual's immediate needs. They should consider the availability of mental health resources and collaborate with mental health professionals or crisis intervention teams, if available.
De-escalation and Conflict Resolution: Officers should utilize de-escalation techniques to defuse tense situations and minimize the use of force. This may involve maintaining a non-threatening posture, actively listening to the individual, and offering options and alternatives to reduce agitation or distress.
Respect for Dignity and Autonomy: Officers should treat individuals experiencing mental health crises with respect, recognizing their inherent dignity and right to autonomy. They should involve the individual in decision-making whenever possible, allowing them to participate in their own care and supporting their preferences, within the limits of safety.
Collaborative Response: Officers should collaborate with mental health professionals, crisis intervention teams, or other appropriate resources to provide comprehensive care to individuals in crisis. This collaboration may involve coordinating transportation to mental health facilities, ensuring appropriate medical assessments, or facilitating access to community-based support services.
Training and Skill Development: Officers should receive specialized training on mental health crisis intervention, including recognizing common mental health conditions, understanding crisis dynamics, and acquiring de-escalation and communication skills. This ongoing training can enhance officers' ability to effectively respond to mental health crises.
Trauma-Informed Approach: Officers should adopt a trauma-informed approach when interacting with individuals in crisis. They should be aware of the potential underlying trauma and its impact on the individual's behavior and responses. By being sensitive to trauma, officers can help create an environment that promotes healing and reduces retraumatization.
By adhering to the principles outlined in the Mental Health Crisis Intervention Policy, officers can help ensure the safety, well-being, and dignity of individuals experiencing mental health crises. It is important for officers to familiarize themselves with their agency's specific policy, actively seek mental health crisis intervention training, and approach these situations with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to positive outcomes.