World Mental Health Day - MHTN

Mental Health and Law Enforcement Team Up for Safer Crisis Response

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KEY POINTS

Hosts Patricia Wu and Jessica Reyes, along with guest psychiatrist Dr. Dan Bober discuss the success of New Jersey’s “Arrive Together” program, mental health professionals are paired with police officers to improve responses to crisis calls.

Mental health crises and police encounters

Individuals with mental illness are significantly more likely to experience negative outcomes during police interactions. Specialized crisis intervention training is often lacking in police departments.

The need for alternative response models

Having mental health professionals as first responders can reduce the risk of escalation and violence, especially when the situation doesn’t involve immediate threats to public safety.

Expanding successful programs

The “Arrive Together” model demonstrates that alternative crisis response programs can  reduce arrests and use of force.  Expanding these programs requires addressing funding and regulatory obstacles.

Editorial Team
Editorial Teamhttps://mhtn.org/
At the heart of MHTN - America's pioneering 24/7 Mental Health TV Network - is our editorial team, a dynamic group of professionals united by a shared commitment to transforming the conversation around mental health. Our team is composed of seasoned journalists, mental health experts, researchers, and storytellers, each bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for advocacy.

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