Bridging The Gap Between Police Officers and Citizens with Mental Illnesses in Canada

Throughout history, mental health has been shrouded in stigma, often preventing open discussion and understanding. In Canada, millions live with mental health issues, with approximately one in five Canadians expected to experience a mental illness at some point in their lives (Smetanin et al., 2011). While societal attitudes towards mental illness are gradually improving, a significant gap remains between police officers and individuals with mental health challenges. In a progressive nation like Canada, it is imperative that training and awareness initiatives continue to foster better relationships between law enforcement and those living with mental illnesses.

The Nature of Police Interactions with Mentally Ill Individuals

Every year, police officers respond to millions of emergency calls, ranging from minor incidents to life-threatening situations. A notable portion of these calls involves individuals experiencing mental health crises. Unfortunately, the unpredictable nature of mental illness often creates a stigma that leads officers to approach these situations with caution, sometimes resulting in fear or anxiety. As the number of individuals living with mental illnesses increases, so too does the likelihood that police officers will encounter them. Unfortunately, many interactions between law enforcement and mentally ill individuals yield negative outcomes, prompting the need for improved training and intervention programs.

Importance of Crisis Intervention Teams

One of the most recognized programs aimed at enhancing police interactions with mentally ill individuals is the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) model. Studies indicate that CIT has a positive impact on the outcomes of these interactions (Cotton and Coleman, 2010). This program pairs police officers with mental health professionals to ensure appropriate responses to calls involving individuals with mental health issues. By providing specialized knowledge and support, CIT helps officers navigate these complex situations with greater confidence and safety.

Research shows that many officers feel inadequately trained to handle mental health-related calls, which can exacerbate tensions and escalate situations (Wells and Schaefer, 2006; Ruiz and Miller, 2004). CIT not only benefits mentally ill individuals but also provides officers with a structured framework for interacting with them more safely and effectively.

Need for Comprehensive Mental Health Training

While first responders receive mental health training, police officers often receive the least amount of training in this area. Given that officers frequently arrive at emergency situations before paramedics, equipping them with extensive mental health training akin to that of paramedics would significantly enhance their ability to assist individuals in crisis. This would alleviate some of the burdens placed on paramedics during mental health emergencies.

Successful Training Initiatives in Canada

Several Canadian police forces have implemented effective training programs designed to prepare officers for encounters with mentally ill individuals. For instance, the Ontario Police College utilizes a comprehensive training guide that is also employed by hospitals, mental health workers, and correctional facilities (Coleman and Cotton, 2010). Another noteworthy initiative is the Lanark County LEAD Team, which comprises officers from various Ontario towns. These officers undergo training that covers mental illness symptoms, risk assessments, behavioral recognition, and de-escalation strategies (Cotton and Coleman, 2010). This training fosters an understanding that mental illness is a medical condition rather than a criminal behavior, allowing officers to approach these situations with empathy and informed strategies.

The Consequences of Incarceration for the Mentally Ill

As more individuals with mental illnesses are incarcerated rather than treated, the need for effective police training and intervention programs is more critical than ever. In the United States, it is estimated that 10-15% of jail inmates and 25% of prison inmates suffer from serious mental illnesses (Fuller et al., 2016). Individuals with mental health disorders should not be subjected to the punitive environment of jails and prisons; instead, they require appropriate treatment in psychiatric facilities.

The tragic case of Ashley Smith, a 19-year-old who died by suicide while incarcerated, underscores the dire consequences of inadequate mental health support within the criminal justice system. Despite her numerous requests for psychiatric help, Smith was placed on suicide watch but ultimately lost her life due to a lack of timely intervention (Timeline: The life & death, 2010). Such incidents highlight the urgent need for police officers to prioritize rehabilitation over punishment when interacting with mentally ill individuals.

Overcoming Stigma and Fostering Awareness

While initiatives like Bell Let's Talk and the Mental Health Commission of Canada are helping to reduce stigma, significant barriers remain. Surveys reveal that many police officers perceive mental health calls as time-consuming and a distraction from their primary duties (Watson and Fulambarker, 2012). To bridge the gap between law enforcement and individuals with mental illnesses, it is essential to eliminate these negative perceptions through education and community engagement.

Awareness can be fostered through community initiatives, such as fundraising for mental health organizations and promoting open dialogues about mental health issues. By engaging in these activities, police officers not only enhance their understanding of mental illnesses but also build trust within their communities. A study found that 12% of police officers experienced PTSD following work-related traumatic events (Marchand, 2015). By recognizing their own mental health challenges, officers can develop a greater understanding of the issues faced by the individuals they serve.

Conclusion

As the stigma surrounding mental health continues to diminish, there is a growing interest among police officers to be part of this transformative change. Nevertheless, a significant gap still exists between law enforcement and individuals with mental health challenges. In Canada, ongoing training and awareness initiatives are crucial to bridging this divide. Through programs like CIT, dedicated training by police forces, community engagement, and a focus on rehabilitation rather than incarceration, meaningful progress can be achieved. While these changes will not occur overnight, they are essential for fostering a safer and more understanding environment for individuals with mental illnesses in Canada.

References:

Smetanin, P., Stiff, D., Briante, C., Adair, C., Ahmad, S., & Khan, M. (2011). The Life and Economic Impact of Mental Illness in Canada. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry.

Cotton, J., & Coleman, T. (2010). Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Program Evaluation. Journal of Police Crisis Negotiations.

Wells, W., & Schaefer, J. (2006). Police Officers' Perceptions of Mental Illness. Criminal Justice and Behavior.

Ruiz, J., & Miller, J. (2004). Understanding the Needs of Officers Responding to Mental Health Crises. Journal of Police Science.

Fuller, D., Sinclair, L., Geller, J., Quanbeck, A., & Snook, B. (2016). Mental Illness in Prison: A National Study. American Journal of Psychiatry.

Marchand, A. (2015). PTSD in Police Officers: A Study of Trauma and Mental Health. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry.

Timeline: The life & death of Ashley Smith. (2010). Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC).

Watson, A. C., & Fulambarker, A. J. (2012). The Impact of Mental Illness on Policing: An Overview of the Literature. Journal of Police Studies.