In many parts of the country, local, state and federal law enforcement officials are being trained to respond to calls that involve people in crisis, including but not limited to those with mental illnesses. The goal is for officers to divert these individuals from the legal system by diffusing the situation, working collaboratively with their mental health colleagues and the individuals’ natural supports and linking the individuals to services.
Primary Care Providers
Primary care offers a potential opportunity to uncover, diagnose, refer and treat underlying mental disorders (e.g., conduct disorder, depression, psychosis). In response to mass violence, primary care and behavioral health teams have developed innovative ways of working together to support children and their families.