First responder systems in the United States have traditionally focused on efficiently dispatching and responding to emergencies such as heart attacks, motor vehicle collisions, community safety issues, robberies, or house fires. Mental health emergencies present unique challenges as they are often influenced by a range of factors including social, genetic, environmental, and healthcare access issues that may have persisted for years or even decades. Recognizing this, mental health advocates have been working to integrate mental health support into the first responder system, aiming to improve access for individuals in crisis and equip traditional first responders with the necessary tools.

To further understand mental health services and opportunities for improved emergency response integration across Arizona, Vitalyst called upon first responder and mental health system experts from across the state to better understand and inform this ongoing work. Throughout 2022, Vitalyst engaged key informants from across Arizona’s fire, EMS, law enforcement, and mental health systems. Vitalyst also sought survey feedback from a diverse range of first responder agencies to inform the current state of mental health integration across fire, EMS, and law enforcement agencies. This report highlights ongoing opportunities presented by key informants and survey respondents across multiple sectors.

This report will provide a comprehensive examination of these critical topics, shedding light on the current state of first responder and mental health integration. It will also showcase the diligent efforts of various stakeholders in Arizona.

Read the full report here.