"I was Able to Like, Kind of Breathe." Baseline Perspectives and Lessons Learned from Participants of a Co-Response Program.

Purpose: Police departments are developing co-response programs to provide a more supportive approach for individuals in mental health crises. While prior studies examine officer attitudes, little research explores program participants' perspectives. This study examines participants' experiences with a co-response team (CIRT) and its impact on their lives. Understanding these experiences can help refine existing programs and inform new initiatives.

Materials And Methods: Using a mixed methods approach, this study includes qualitative interviews ( = 15) and quantitative surveys ( = 37) to assess perceptions of CIRT encounters. Surveys measured feelings during interactions, overall perceptions of CIRT, and likelihood of seeking further treatment. Thematic analysis explored participants' narratives.

Results: Findings highlight CIRT's use of alternatives to arrests and citations, fostering a helping attitude. Survey data indicate generally positive perceptions, with participants feeling safer contacting the police after encounters. Key themes include: 1) Connections to community services with barriers removed; 2) Personal changes following CIRT interactions; 3) Need for greater CIRT availability and community awareness; and 4) Persistent systemic barriers.

Discussion: Participants reported positive experiences with CIRT and highlighted feelings of safety, trust, and connection when CIRT responded to their crises. Still, participants noted minimal community awareness of the program, limited operational hours, and systemic barriers to services in the area as limitations to CIRT's effectiveness.

Conclusion: This study emphasizes the importance of continued investment in, and refinement of co-response programs, along with the need to address systemic barriers to supportive services and quality mental health care.