Information about calling the police for help

(From NAMI Dallas and the Dallas Police Department, amended to include information from local sources )

If your loved one is a danger to themselves or others, please dial 911 for help.

HOLD THIS LIST IN YOUR HAND WHEN YOU DIAL 911 SO YOU CAN FOLLOW THE SUGGESTED GUILDLINES. GIVE THE DISPATCHER THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

If you want help getting loved one to the hospital, say: I am calling to request medical transport for a person experiencing a mental illness crisis.

Is there a police officer on duty who is familiar with helping those with mental illness and/or trained in Crisis Intervention?

Your Name:

Address law enforcement should come to:

List any weapons that are present:

Name of your loved one:

Age:

Height and weight:

Clothing description:

Diagnosis:

Drug use (current or past):

Medications (on or off):

Any prior violent behavior:

Past psychosis:

Details about past delusions or hallucinations:

Triggers:

Things that have helped in the past:

If possible, go outside the home and meet the police officers alone before they enter the home.

KEEP IN MIND: You are asking an unknown professional to come to your home to help you resolve a crisis. They will have NO information about the situation/individual unless you inform them. Be sure you can provide this information. It may help to practice so that you are better able to convey this during a crisis situation.