Skip to content

Police launch mental health initiative with 'local heroes'

Early intervention can help work toward solving issues before they evolve into a crisis and, in many cases, it can save a life
20190129 north bay police logo basement turl
North Bay Police Service

The North Bay Police in conjunction with the Community Drug Strategy North Bay & Area has launched a new mental health initiative called #TimeToTalk, which encourages everyone to talk openly about mental health challenges, bullying, abusive relationships, and at-risk substance use.

It also aims to remove the stigma associated with talking about these issues with a parent or guardian, teacher, or police officer.

#TimeToTalk has assembled a number of “Community Heroes,” to speak up about these issues and post supportive videos on social media. The initiative encourages anyone who knows someone who has struggled, or who has struggled themselves, with these issues to post a video about their experience on social media and encourage others to speak up.

The program hopes to improve the early detection of mental health, abuse, and at-risk substance use; early intervention to support victims and those struggling; and community empowerment to identify, address, and speak openly about these issues according to a news release.

"While individuals may think they are helping those struggling by 'keeping their secret,' ignoring an issue can isolate victims and prevent them from accessing the supports and services they need in order to make a positive change in their life. Talking to service providers in our community, including the North Bay Police, can provide vital intervention for a person in crisis. It also empowers victims, family members, friends, and neighbours to support one another and report observed behaviour," says the release.

The NBPS Mobile Crisis Team partners police officers with registered nurses from the North Bay Regional Health Centre to respond to mental health crises, suicide threats, and welfare checks, among other incidents.

If a friend or sibling is struggling with addiction or mental health, start a conversation with a parent or teacher. If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship or being bullied, speak up and tell someone in a position of authority. If you see something concerning in your neighbourhood, contact the North Bay Police Service.

Early intervention can help work toward solving issues before they evolve into a crisis and, in many cases, it can save a life.