Why Wellness Checks by Police Are Important: Understanding the Impact on Mental Health
Wellness checks by police are one of the many ways in which law enforcement can ensure the safety of the community. These checks involve officers visiting an individual who may be in distress or in danger, to assess their well-being and provide support if needed. While the practice of wellness checks has been around for years, the mental health impact on individuals being checked has recently come under scrutiny.
What Are Wellness Checks?
Wellness checks are performed by police officers to ensure that a person is safe and not in danger. An officer could be requested to perform a wellness check on someone who is not answering their phone, or after receiving a call from someone expressing concern about an individual. They can also be conducted as part of a larger community program when officers are instructed to conduct checks on individuals who may be at risk.
The Mental Health Impact of Wellness Checks
Wellness checks can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental health, especially if they are already experiencing mental illness. The presence of law enforcement officers can often trigger feelings of anxiety, fear, and trauma for some individuals, making it challenging to have an open and honest conversation with the officers conducting the wellness check. This can lead to a reluctance in seeking help, causing further mental health deterioration.
Why Wellness Checks Are Important for Mental Health
Despite the potential risks, wellness checks remain an important way to protect the community, especially when it comes to individuals with mental health conditions. Police officers are trained to handle situations involving mental health crises, and they have the resources to connect individuals with professional support services. Moreover, the involvement of law enforcement means that the situation can be assessed and diffused, preventing potential harm.
How to Make Wellness Checks Safer for Mental Health
It is essential to recognize the potential impact wellness checks can have on individuals with mental health concerns. To make these checks safer, police departments can provide officers with specialized training to deal with these situations. Departments can also work with mental health professionals to develop protocols that prioritize the safety and well-being of individuals undergoing wellness checks.
Conclusion
Wellness checks by police are an important way to protect the community, but it is vital to consider the impact they can have on individuals with mental health concerns. By recognizing the potential risks and putting in place measures to make these checks safer, law enforcement can better ensure the safety of all members of the community, including those experiencing mental health issues.
