An increasing number of calls involving mental health issues underscores the need for police training, according to Chatham-Kent's police chief.
Gary Conn says all police officers get training in defusing situations at the Ontario Police College and many receive additional help.
"If they get trained to become a Help Team member or a Help Mobile Crisis Team member they receive and additional week of training which is tailored just towards those particular types of calls," he says. "I think that trend is being seen throughout the province, take a look at some of the events that have occurred recently in Toronto and ended with either serious injury or the death of an individual."
Today is Bell Let's Talk day to raise issues of mental health awareness.
Conn says calls have doubled over the past seven years and it is essential that police respond properly.
He says they also need training to help them stay well-grounded so they deal properly on a personal level as well.
