A missing woman was found safe this week near the War Memorial at Tracy Park, but her story speaks to a much larger issue facing countless families: how to care for a mentally ill loved one who is homeless and at risk.
Officers responded to a call about a suspicious person in the park and quickly realized the woman matched the description of a missing person recently reported by her family. Relatives had grown concerned after not hearing from her for days and feared the worst.
When officers approached her, the woman said she was okay and made a call to her worried family. They were relieved to hear her voice and immediately made arrangements to help. A hotel room was secured, and officers stood by while she filled a prescription at a nearby CVS. Though police offered her a ride to the hotel, her family ultimately sent a taxi to ensure she had a warm, safe place to spend the night.
While this story ended on a hopeful note, it’s part of a much more complicated—and heartbreaking—reality for families trying to help loved ones battling both homelessness and mental illness.
When Mental Illness Meets the Streets
For families, it’s a helpless feeling. They know their loved one needs help—sometimes desperately—but when the person refuses care, won’t stay in shelters, or disappears, the system often feels stacked against them.
Without consistent mental health treatment, even those who previously lived stable lives can fall through the cracks. And without housing, it becomes nearly impossible to manage prescriptions, attend appointments, or stay healthy.
What Can Families Do?
While each case is unique, here are a few resources and tips that can help:
- Reach Out to Local Mental Health Services
- Use the “Pink Slip” Law
In Ohio, if a person appears to be mentally ill and is a danger to themselves or others, they can be taken for an emergency psychiatric evaluation—even without their consent.
- Get a Case Manager
Local agencies can assign caseworkers who help with everything from medication to securing housing. Persistence is key—these services are in high demand.
- Join a Support Group
Organizations like NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) provide resources, education, and peer support for families. You are not alone.
A Human Touch
“Sometimes all someone needs is a little patience and a safe ride,” said one officer involved in the call. “We try to do what we can, but the system works best when families, mental health professionals, and law enforcement come together.”
The woman found in Tracy Park was lucky. She had a family that refused to give up. But many others don’t. Her story is a reminder that while you can’t force someone to accept help, there are ways to keep hope alive and find a path forward—even when the road is long.
If you or someone you love is struggling, don’t wait. Call, ask questions, knock on doors. Help is out there—and so are people who care.
