DHS, DoJ working to improve response to incidents involving individuals with mental illness, GAO says

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of Justice (DoJ) are striving to improve incident response involving individuals with mental illness, but challenges remain, according to a Government Accountability Office (GAO) review released on Thursday.

Under the 21st Century Cures Act, the GAO was directed to review practices that federal first responders, tactical units, and correctional officers are trained to use in situations involving individuals with mental illness.

The review found that identifying and communicating with individuals with mental illness are among the biggest challenges to responders. Limited access to mental health resources and frequent contacts with the same individuals were also cited as top challenges.

Still, the review found that all of the law enforcement components “either offer, receive or are developing some form of training to their law enforcement officers and agents that address responding to incidents involving individuals with a mental illness.”

“Further, all components have relevant policies or guidance in place, and all are undertaking efforts to enhance their practices in accordance with departmental guidance,” the review stated. “Since DHS and DOJ components have varying missions and operational needs and interact with the public in different capacities, the nature and scope of training, as well as the number and duration of courses offered in response to individuals with mental illness varies; however, they generally include elements focusing on de-escalation and communication.”

DHS and DoJ are also in the process of reviewing training policies and practices and plan to begin to implement needed changes by the end of the year, GAO found.