Front Line of the Crisis: Portsmouth Police Respond to Surge in Mental Health Emergencies

Portsmouth officers found themselves on the front lines of a growing mental health crisis this weekend, answering call after call from people in danger of harming themselves — and from the loved ones desperately trying to save them. At 2:45 p.m. Saturday, Portsmouth Ambulance crews called for backup at a local rehab facility when a combative, suicidal man threatened to hurt himself. Staff discharged him due to the escalating danger, and medics quickly transported him to the hospital for treatment. Later that evening, around 9 p.m., a woman called police in fear after her husband made suicidal threats and stormed out of a restaurant. Fortunately, he returned before officers arrived on scene, avoiding what could have been a tragic turn. The calls kept coming. At 10 p.m., officers and EMS rushed to the Four Keys Inn after a report of a woman threatening to hurt herself. Once again, medics intervened, taking her to the hospital for much-needed help. Just half an hour later, officers were called to check on another individual reportedly having suicidal thoughts. In this case, the person told police they were okay and denied any intent to harm themselves or anyone else. The crisis continued into Sunday evening when, around 7:30 p.m., a worried parent called 911, reporting that their son had left home after saying he planned to end his life. Officers searched multiple locations, speaking with people who had seen him, but were unable to make contact. The Growing Reality: First Responders as Mental Health Crisis Teams While police officers are trained to handle danger, they're increasingly asked to step into roles traditionally reserved for mental health professionals. With limited local resources and a shortage of treatment options, officers often become the first — and sometimes only — line of defense between a mental health emergency and tragedy. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm, here’s what to do: Don’t ignore it. Even if the person seems to calm down, threats of self-harm should always be taken seriously. Call for help immediately. Dial 911 if there’s an immediate threat, or contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 for support. Stay with the person if it’s safe to do so, and avoid leaving them alone until help arrives. Listen without judgment. Sometimes just being heard can make a life-saving difference. Encourage professional help. Suggest contacting a therapist, doctor, or crisis center. Help is always available. If you're in crisis or need support, call or text 988 — the new three-digit Suicide and Crisis Lifeline available 24/7.

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