Understanding the family perspective in police responses to individuals living with mental illness

The family is often a locus of care for a loved one living with mental illness. Little is known about the family's perspective of caring for a loved one who has been involved with police. Qualitative interviews were conducted with parents and themes emerged including personal, police and community, and systemic influences. This insight helps enrich our understanding of what happens at the intersection of crisis and individuals living with mental illness. Practice implications and opportunities are provided for those who work with individuals living with mental illness, their families, police officers, and our larger communities.