Changes Needed

Training of police officers about mental illness so they have an understanding of what mental illness is and how to de-escalate and properly handle a person in a psychotic crisis.
We want to see this training become a mandatory federal law that is required of all police officers.
People who are working in the jails and the prisons also have training in mental illness so that they will be able to work with inmates with knowledge and understanding and therefore treat people with mental illness in a humane manner.
Have prosecutors expedite court proceedings so that people with mental illness are treated fairly and humanely. Most people with mental illnesses need treatment not incarceration. Treatment works and is also cost effective.
Doctors who care for the jail and prison populations are qualified to treat people with mental illnesses. There should be psychiatrists treating the mentally ill not just family physicians.
Family members should be able to speak to the doctor treating their relatives and have input of what can be done to help their relatives.
Hospitals must be willing to admit people with a mental illness before a state of psychosis is reached in order to avert a crisis situation.
People need to understand that mental illnesses are biological brain disorders that can be treated. With understanding and love these people can remain a functioning part of society. Stop stigma and discrimination against people with mental illnesses. Learn about these illnesses as any physical disease.
When people see something is not right they will take the steps to actively work to effect changes.