UPDATE: San Mateo County’s innovative approach to mental health crises is yielding significant results, with a new study revealing a 17% reduction in involuntary psychiatric holds. This development comes as mental health calls surge, prompting local officials to rethink traditional law enforcement responses.
Briana Fair, a mental health clinician with the San Mateo Police Department, has been pivotal in this new model, which pairs police officers with mental health professionals. Fair is often called to respond to urgent situations, such as when a distressed client reaches out multiple times in a weekend, fearing for her safety and needing immediate assistance. Fair’s presence ensures that clients receive the necessary support without resorting to 911 and escalating their crises.
According to a recent study by Stanford University’s John W. Gardner Center for Youth and Their Communities, this co-responder model has resulted in a marked decrease in costly interventions, potentially saving taxpayers between $300,000 to $800,000 annually. Researchers reported approximately 370 fewer involuntary psychiatric holds over two years in the four pilot cities: Daly City, San Mateo, Redwood City, and South San Francisco.
San Mateo County Executive Officer Mike Callagy emphasized the need for alternatives to police intervention in mental health crises, stating, “We’ve got to look to alternatives and really understand that police are not the best equipped to handle mental health crisis situations.” This sentiment echoes across the nation, as communities call for reforms in the wake of high-profile incidents involving police and mental health crises.
Fair’s role is not just about responding to emergencies; she also works on preventive measures, helping clients manage their daily challenges. During a recent session, Fair assisted a client struggling with self-care, demonstrating her commitment to addressing underlying issues. “It’s just a matter of getting her the right supports,” Fair noted, highlighting the human aspect of her work.
The pilot program, which cost approximately $1.5 million over two years, has become a model for other cities. Following its success, the San Mateo Police Department has made Fair’s role permanent, recognizing the value of having a dedicated mental health clinician on staff. Other participating cities are also seeking sustainable ways to maintain their programs.
As the holidays approach, mental health calls tend to spike, and Fair is prepared for the increased demand. She recently responded to a range of crises, including imminent threats from individuals experiencing severe distress. “This time of year can be lonely,” Fair explained, underscoring the urgency of her work.
The study’s authors, Tom Dee and Jaymes Pyne, argue that this model is a “common-sense reform” with great potential, though they caution that successful implementation requires careful design and commitment from law enforcement. San Mateo Police Chief Ed Barberini acknowledged the initial concerns about adopting this model but noted that the positive outcomes have validated the decision.
As communities across the U.S. seek effective strategies to manage mental health emergencies, San Mateo County’s co-responder model stands out as a promising solution. The evidence continues to build, showing that integrating mental health professionals into emergency responses not only aids individuals in crisis but also alleviates the pressure on police resources.
The success of this initiative may inspire similar programs nationwide, as cities grapple with how to best address mental health needs without defaulting to traditional policing methods. As Fair continues her vital work in the field, the emphasis on humane, effective responses to mental health crises is gaining traction, fostering hope for a more compassionate future.