A look ahead: Shelby County Probate Court helps first responders deal with the mentally ill

December 27, 2017 9:51 PM

Photo courtesy of Shelby Probate Court.

In 2018, Shelby County Probate Court will continue to help train first responders to better handle crisis situations involving people with mental illness, autism, dementia or depression, and the court is also branching out to help educate the community.

The court will host another five-day crisis response training for first responders, probably this summer, according to Allison Boyd, Mental Health Services programs coordinator.

The training, similar to a session held in July 2017, will cover such topics as recognizing mental illness, preventing suicide and interacting with the mentally ill.

First responders also get to know the mental-health professionals, most from Shelby County, who lead the training.

“When first responders are in a crisis situation, it’s important that they are able to identify the signs and symptoms, but maybe even more important that they know the appropriate resource to contact and have a good working relationship with that community service provider,” Boyd said.

The court was also planning to host an eight-hour overview for fire and EMS personnel in late December or January, Boyd said.

There is a growing awareness of the importance of such training, both for first responders and community members, according to Boyd.

Like first responders, area residents — this includes friends and family members of people with mental illness and other conditions — need to recognize signs and symptoms, but they also need to learn the services and support available.

Such knowledge helps people in “avoiding the crisis situations altogether or finding a positive resolution for their loved one,” Boyd said.

Some Shelby County cities have started their own programs, including town hall meetings, according to Boyd.

She has also heard from some churches and a police department that would like to host community mental-illness information sessions.

In December, Boyd had begun contacting area service providers to create a community presentation.