All too often, law enforcement officers are the first responder to a person or family having a mental health crisis. These interactions can have tragic consequences when both sides aren’t prepared appropriately. In an attempt to mitigate this, the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) and the National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA) partnered to develop a Resources for Interactions Between Law Enforcement and Individuals with Mental Health Issues web page. It categorizes resources by officer wellness, corrections, substance abuse, health care, the role of the states, law enforcement, programs and initiatives, and tools and other resources. The page highlights promising practices for law enforcement and allied professionals and promotes collaborative partnerships among them with the ultimate goal of appropriately serving individuals with mental illnesses.

Jessica Vanderpool
Assistant Director of Grants and Contracts
National Sheriffs’ Association

Nazmia Comrie
Senior Program Specialist
COPS Office

Additional Resources:
People with Mental Illness POP Guide

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