From the Director: Law Enforcement and Behavioral Health, Working Together

Police officers enter the lives of those they serve in critical moments. When a crime or other emergency occurs, police officers are often the first responders in moments that will shape the futures of all those involved. These situations can be dangerous, highly stressful, and even traumatic for officers and the public. Beyond protecting physical safety, police leaders should be aware of the impact these encounters have on the mental health of individuals in their communities and the law enforcement officers serving those communities. Police departments can work with providers and communities to build systems that improve response to people with mental and substance use disorders while providing supports for the police and reducing the potential for further crime and trauma.