Published on April 30th, 2023

Mental health crises are already difficult enough to deal with, but when the police become involved, the situation can quickly turn dangerous. In recent years, there have been numerous instances of police using excessive force, including deadly force, when responding to mental health crises. These incidents have highlighted the need for alternative responses to mental health emergencies.

In this article, we will explore the dangers of police involvement in mental health crises and the importance of finding alternative solutions.

Police Response to Mental Health Crises

When someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, it's common for their loved ones to call the police for help. Unfortunately, police officers are not always equipped to handle mental health emergencies. They are trained to respond to situations with force and to maintain control, which can escalate the situation in a mental health crisis.

This is especially true for people of color who are disproportionately affected by police violence. According to a study by the Ruderman Family Foundation, people with untreated mental illness are 16 times more likely to be killed by police. This is particularly true for Black and Latino communities, who are more likely to experience police violence.

Dangers of Police Involvement

Use of Force

One of the most significant dangers of police involvement in mental health crises is the use of force. Police officers are trained to use force when necessary, and in a mental health crisis, they may perceive a threat that doesn't exist. This can lead to the use of excessive force, including deadly force.

For example, in 2019, 17-year-old Elijah McClain died after being placed in a chokehold by police officers in Aurora, Colorado. McClain was walking home from a convenience store when someone called 911 to report a suspicious person. The police officers who responded to the call used force to restrain McClain, including a chokehold, and injected him with ketamine. McClain suffered a heart attack and died a few days later.

Lack of Understanding

Another danger of police involvement in mental health crises is a lack of understanding. Police officers may not be trained in mental health and may not understand the nuances of a mental health crisis. This can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations of behavior, which can result in harm to the person experiencing the crisis.

For example, in 2020, Daniel Prude, a 41-year-old Black man, died after being restrained by police officers in Rochester, New York. Prude was experiencing a mental health crisis and was naked and unarmed when the police arrived. The police officers placed a hood over Prude's head and pressed his face into the pavement, causing his death.

Trauma and Stigma

Finally, police involvement in mental health crises can result in trauma and stigma. People who experience a mental health crisis may be traumatized by the experience, especially if they are subject to police violence. Additionally, involving the police can lead to stigma, as mental illness is often viewed as a criminal issue rather than a medical one.

Alternatives to Police Involvement

Given the dangers of police involvement in mental health crises, it's essential to explore alternative responses. One alternative is to use mental health professionals to respond to mental health emergencies. These professionals are trained to handle mental health crises and can provide appropriate support and care.

Another alternative is to establish crisis response teams that include mental health professionals, social workers, and other trained professionals. These teams can respond to mental health crises and provide support and care, without the use of force.

Conclusion

In conclusion, police involvement in mental health crises can be dangerous and even deadly. People of color are disproportionately affected by police violence in mental health crises, highlighting the need for alternative responses. It's essential to explore alternative responses such as mental health professionals or crisis response teams that can provide appropriate support and care without the use of force. These alternatives not only reduce the risk of harm to the person experiencing the crisis but also promote choice, dignity, and opportunities for their right to be advocated for.

At VillageStrong, we understand the challenges that come with mental health crises, and we are committed to providing support and respite services to those who need it most. Our Peer Support Specialists are trained to offer support and understanding to those experiencing mental health crises, and we are dedicated to finding alternative responses to mental health emergencies that prioritize safety and care.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out to us at VillageStrong. We are here to support you and provide the resources you need to navigate this difficult time. You can reach us at villagestrong@proton.me. Let's work together to find safer and more effective ways to respond to mental health crises.