What is the aim of "Crisis Intervention Training" (CIT)?

Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) is specifically designed to prepare law enforcement officers for handling incidents that involve individuals experiencing mental health crises. This type of training focuses on teaching officers how to recognize signs of mental illness, de-escalate potentially volatile situations, and apply appropriate intervention techniques. The primary aim is to reduce the risk of harm to both the individuals in crisis and the officers responding to the situation, promoting a compassionate approach and understanding of mental health issues.

While physical confrontations, interrogation techniques, and enhancing patrol effectiveness are all important aspects of police training, they do not specifically address the unique needs and challenges presented during mental health emergencies. CIT emphasizes communication skills, empathetic engagement, and collaboration with mental health professionals, making it a crucial component in equipping law enforcement with the tools necessary to respond appropriately in such scenarios.