Brazil implements integrated mental health crisis training

Public safety and health agencies in Brazil are implementing specialized training programs to improve the management of mental health crises. These initiatives aim to foster integration between medical professionals and security forces to ensure safer and more humanized responses to psychiatric emergencies.

In Minas Gerais, the Military Firefighters of Poços de Caldas are conducting training for the Psychosocial Care Network (RAPS), SAMU, Municipal Guard, and Military Police. The program includes theoretical instruction and practical simulations to prepare professionals for scenarios involving self-harm, psychomotor agitation, and other risks to individuals or third parties. The goal is to coordinate actions between health and security sectors to provide rapid and safe assistance.

In Rio Grande do Sul, the Brigada Militar is participating in the Integrated Response Program in Mental Health Emergencies at the São Pedro Psychiatric Hospital. This program, a joint effort between the Secretariats of Health and Public Security, utilizes practical simulations with actors to train police officers in humanized approaches to psychotic crises. The initiative seeks to standardize protocols for emergency calls (190, 192, and 193) to ensure cases are correctly classified and directed to either health or security professionals based on the level of risk.