Recognizing and Responding to people with mental illness

PURPOSE OF COURSE:             This 8-hour program has been designed by the Schaumburg Police Department to provide students with a strong knowledge base involving the proper identification of the various major mental disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, as well as how to properly handle and interact with mentally ill persons. As other psychiatric disorders are encountered on a daily basis, discussion of the various disorders as well as tips and techniques will be provided. Discussion and proper response to hyperactive delirium will be explored as well. The ability to identify the various classes of psychotropic medications and their uses will also allow the officer to quickly recognize the type of mental illness and guide his or her interaction. The course will be supported by cases and examples to demonstrate successful officer response and interactions. Attendees will receive a Psychiatric Medication Quick List, a reference list to the major mental disorders, as well as additional handouts and tools to immediately apply in the field.

COURSE GOALS:

• Identify the major mental disorders most commonly seen in the field, including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders.
• Define, identify, and discuss suicide assessment.
• Identify and discuss the similarities and differences between drug-induced psychosis, mixed state psychosis, and general psychosis.
• Define and discuss co-occurring/dual diagnosis and the impact on mental health.
• Define and discuss the various personality disorders.
• Identify and characterize hyperactive delirium.
• Name, identify and discuss the latest psychotropic medications across psychiatric conditions.

¨ Recognize, respond and interact confidently and effectively with mentally ill and emotionally disturbed individuals utilizing de-escalation tips and techniques.