Issue link: http://lawandordermag.epubxp.com/i/139048
UP-CLOSE CIT Programs Offer Real Solutions SUMMARY Crisis Intervention Training gives officers an entirely new and different tool box to handle the uncertain situation. In many cases, it solves many problems before they escalate to situations requiring higher levels of force. This training sets the record straight on violence from the mentally ill and almost always includes autism awareness training. MORE INFORMATION URL: www.nami.org CIT can offer other options. CIT PROGRAMS OFFER REAL SOLUTIONS STARTING A CIT PROGRAM IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK. By Kelly Sharp A ccording to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in four Americans suffers from some type of mental illness. For the vast majority, it is an inconvenience that can be dealt with using medications and therapy, allowing them to function successfully in society. They raise their families, have social lives, and hold down jobs just like anyone else with a chronic illness. 44 LAW and ORDER I June 2013