PRESS RELEASE: OKCPD’s new Mental Health Response Protocol Guide available to view online


The City of Oklahoma City sends this information as posted below:


The Oklahoma City Police Department (OKCPD) unveiled its latest crisis response initiative to police employees with the launch of the Mental Health Response Protocol Guide.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), nearly 1 in 25 adults in America live with a serious mental illness.

The 22-page guide was developed to help officers and 911 dispatchers more effectively and safely respond to people in crisis. Residents can read the guide at okc.gov/mentalhealth.

“These protocols provide employees with clear guidance to ensure optimal services are delivered to people experiencing a mental health crisis,” Police Chief Wade Gourley said. “Having a diverse array of tools at our disposal enables us to effectively aid residents in safely navigating crises and guide them toward resources that will support their path to recovery. This success is fostered by our robust partnerships with mental health professionals.”

Topics covered in the guide include:

  • Recognizing people in crisis
  • 911 call intake and diversion
  • Police response
  • Tools and resources
  • Alternatives to arrest

The guide requires police employees to document their interactions with people experiencing a mental health crisis. The information collected will identify resource gaps, demonstrate the community’s mental health needs and help OKCPD implement data-driven mental health resources throughout the City.

For more information, visit okc.gov/mentalhealth.


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