CIT Concepts for 9-1-1 Personnel Day 1: Understanding CIT

Crisis Intervention Team (CIT)-trained law enforcement officers are well-established throughout the nation. CIT Concepts for 911 Personnel Day 1 was created to meet the persistent need for Mental Health Awareness in the 911 community. In one 8-hour session, telecommunicators will familiarize themselves with the CIT model of responding to mental health crisis calls. This training will equip call-takers with tools they need to help de-escalate the situation before police, fire, and/or EMS arrive.

Course Objectives:

• Discuss current Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) programs in Illinois
• Review Signs & Symptoms of Mental Health Disorders
• Hear First-Hand Account From a Person Living Successfully with a Mental Illness
• Discuss tips on Handling a Mental Health Crisis and Resources Available
• Discuss tips on identifying a crisis state and ways to connect with someone in crisis
• Review active listening and why it works
• Examine Physiological and Psychological Effects of Sedentary Work and Vicarious Trauma
• Evaluate tips for self-care and building resilience

Prerequisites: Students should be telecommunicators and/or call-takers in emergency service environments.