Co-Response Differences in the US and Australia

Today’s Brief:

• Behavioral Health Briefs

• Co-Response in Australia 🇦🇺 

• PermiaCare introduces their Co-Responder program

• Social Media Briefs

  Total Read Time: 2 Minutes

🧠 Behavioral Health Briefs

Sacramento County Sheriff's Office faces more questions on mental health policy

The article reports on the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office's policy to not respond to certain non-criminal mental health calls, leading to scrutiny from a civilian oversight commission. While the department cites safety and resource concerns, critics argue that the policy may leave individuals in crisis without necessary support.

Relying on law enforcement to solve mental health crisis puts lives at risk

This opinion piece highlights how police officers, often acting as default mental health responders, may lack the specialized training needed to handle such crises effectively. It advocates for the expansion of trained crisis response teams, especially in rural areas, to ensure safer and more appropriate interventions for individuals experiencing mental health emergencies.

👮 Police aren't properly trained for mental health crises—but they're often the first responders. Here's what works better

Police officers are often the first to respond to mental health crises, yet most lack the specialized training needed to de-escalate these situations safely. This mismatch can lead to tragic outcomes and places an unfair burden on law enforcement. The article highlights research showing that alternative models—such as mobile crisis teams and co-responder programs—are more effective and safer. These models pair officers with mental health professionals or replace them entirely in some scenarios. Ultimately, the piece advocates for investment in crisis systems that treat mental illness as a health issue, not a public safety threat.

👮 PermiaCare introduces their Co-Responder program

PermiaCare has launched a new co-responder program in partnership with Odessa Police and Midland County Sheriff's Office. The program embeds mental health professionals directly into emergency response teams to handle behavioral health crises in real time. By offering on-the-spot assessments and care, the model aims to reduce unnecessary arrests and ER visits. Law enforcement officers benefit from added support and training while individuals in crisis receive more appropriate care. PermiaCare hopes this program becomes a model for other Texas communities seeking to improve crisis response.