Police provide assistance in 253 mental health related incidents in September
As part of National Mental Health Week, ACT Policing is reminding the community that police are here to help.
A large proportion of the work that ACT Policing undertakes involves a mental health element. Over the month of September, ACT Policing provided assistance in 253 mental health related incidents, an average of 59 per week.
Sergeant Ron Melis of ACT Policing’s Mental Health Community Policing Initiative said police attend a range of mental health related incidents, including missing persons, check welfares and unfortunately, suicides.
“ACT Policing delivers comprehensive training on how to best provide support as first responders. Frontline officers are also supported by ACT Health Senior Mental Health Clinicians working in ACT Policing Operations.”
“Police are regularly called to situations because of concerns for the safety of individuals who may be experiencing mental health difficulties. While we are not mental health professionals, police aim to protect and minimise the risk of harm until appropriate care and support can be provided,” Sergeant Melis said.
There are a number of services that can provide information, advice and support relating to mental health matters. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health issues, the following helplines are available 24/7.
- Mental Health Triage service: 1800 629 354 or (02) 6205 1065
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
Media enquiries
Police Media — (02) 6264 9460, act-police-media@afp.gov.au