Mental Health

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Boston Police Department is highlighting some of the resources, partnerships, and specialized units in the City and our Department Today, we recognize the BPD’s Street Outreach Unit (SOU), a specialized citywide unit formed in 2019 to support individuals impacted by mental illness, substance use disorder, and homelessness with compassion, professionalism,

👋 The BPD Street Outreach Unit (SOU) – Here to Help Our Community 🏡 SOU’s mission: Promote community-based support for citizens affected by mental illness, substance use disorder, and homelessness in a professional, humane and supportive manner. With MA Department of Mental Health support, the SOU has provided 40-hour training to 200+ BPD officers on

In collaboration with Boston Medical Center’s Boston Emergency Services Team (BEST), the BPD’s Co-Response program pairs Master’s-level clinicians with officers to respond to mental health crises. The goal? To provide timely, community-based psychiatric support to those in need, reducing unnecessary arrests, and easing the strain on emergency services. Together, we’re making a difference!

🌟 Discover the Boston Police Department’s Co-Response Model with Boston Emergency Services Team (BEST) clinicians! 🚓🤝 For over a decade, we’ve partnered with BEST at Boston Medical Center to enhance our mental health response.🧠 📈 The program increases the safety of everyone involved by emphasizing de-escalation, assessment, and diversion from arrest when appropriate. 📊 In

🚨 When a loved one experiences a mental health crisis, knowing what to do and say when calling 911 can be extremely helpful. Here are vital tips to ensure your loved one receives the support they need. i Call 911: Dial 911 immediately if your loved one is in crisis, especially if there’s a risk