Lansing panel highlights collaboration in mental health crisis response

A panel of law enforcement and mental health professionals discussed mental health crisis response Wednesday in East Lansing during a documentary screening and community discussion hosted by ALPACT Metro Lansing.

Panelists emphasized collaboration among agencies and the community, while addressing barriers created by co-occurring substance use and separate treatment systems. Ingham County Chief Deputy Darin Southworth said more programs are needed to address both concerns at once.

The discussion also highlighted Lansing’s recently established Crisis Care Center, an upcoming crisis stabilization unit and efforts to promote existing resources. MSU police social worker Maria Valayil said she plans to collaborate on judgment-free mental health discussions during the spring semester.

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