Lawrence’s Mental Health Initiative

By Corporal Matthew Howell

The Teams:

• Lawrence Police Department’s Mental Health Team (MHT): Responds to mental health-related calls, conducts follow-ups, attend Behavioral Health Court, and collaborates with the City of Lawrence Homeless Solutions Division to help ensure the safety and security of outreach teams.
• Douglas County Mobile Response Team (MRT): Provides on-site crisis services through Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center.

Why it matters: Dedicated mental health teams ensure individuals in crisis receive the right care, by the right person, at the right time, enhancing community safety and trust. This initiative reduces stigma, increases access to care, and fosters a supportive environment.

How it works: These teams connect with mental health professionals and social workers to address crises involving mental health, substance abuse, and behavioral concerns. This collaborative approach reduces arrests and improves outcomes.

The outcome:

• Focus on safety and crisis de-escalation
• Improve access to care and support
• Reduce stigma surrounding mental health
• Prevent incarceration
• Build community trust
• Lessen the burden on emergency services