Out of 720 hours of basic training at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy, only 23 are dedicated to communication training, such as interviewing techniques and crisis conflict management.
NAMI Maine
After rise of mental health-related calls, Bath PD start crisis training
“I’d like the police to see people as an individual and see if someone is in distress or they might need mental health services,” said Stacy Clayton, who has served two jail sentences for drug-related charges.
Community gathers to honor teen who died by suicide, encourage those struggling to reach out
Spencer Smith, 16, took his own life last week. On Tuesday, his family and loved ones gathered for a vigil in his memory and to share a simple but strong message: Speak up if you are struggling.
Death of Brunswick teen who took his life a sign of pandemic’s toll on young people
The midcoast community is mourning the loss of a high school football player whose parents have cited the coronavirus pandemic as a factor affecting their son’s mental health.
Georgetown singer-songwriter creates album centered around mental health
Lauren Crosby partnered with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Maine to release her newest album, “Sheepscot Valley Enchantress,” and $1 from every album will be donated to the Hallowell-based non-profit.
Maine Voices: Reach out and help someone – suicide prevention is everyone’s responsibility
In a time of crisis, we must do a better job accepting mental illness as a disease that is no different from diabetes or a broken limb.
NAMI Maine: Increase community support for people with mental illness
Investments should ensure that social service professionals respond to people in need, and police are called upon to respond only to public safety issues.
Commentary: Maine police working together to defuse mental health crises
The evidence-based Crisis Intervention Team Program helps people access treatment and diverts them from the criminal justice system.
Bill Nemitz: He tried to save the world but could not save himself
Dave Bakis spent 12 years traveling through 40 countries to help kids in need. Then, just before Christmas, he took his own life.