"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.