Wellness Checks: How to Request One for Someone You’re Concerned About
What’s a wellness check?
A wellness check (or welfare check) is a service provide by police departments where officers physically visit someone’s location to ensure they’re safe and well.
When to request a wellness check
Consider request a wellness check when:
- Someone hasn’t responded to calls / messages for an unusual amount of time
- The person has express concern thoughts about self harm
- You have reason to believe they may be in danger
- A vulnerable person (elderly, disabled )hasn’t been heheardrom
- There are concern changes in behavior or communication
How to request a wellness check
Follow these steps to request a wellness check:
-
Call the non-emergency police line
In the person’s local area (unless it’s an immediate emergency, so call 911 ) -
Explain your concerns
Clear and briefly -
Provide essential information
Include: - The person’s full name
- Their exact address
- Your relationship to them
- Why you’re concern
- Any relevant medical conditions
- Whether they own weapons
- If they have pets
- Best entry points to the residence
What happens during a wellness check
During a wellness check:
- Officers will visit the location will provide
- They will knock on doors / windows to make contact
- If necessary, they may enter the residence
- They will assess the person’s condition and safety
- If needneed, tthey willarrange medical assistance
- They’ll typically will contact you with basic results
Alternatives to police wellness checks
Consider these alternatives when appropriate:
-
Mental health crisis teams
Many communities have specialized teams for mental health concerns -
Family members or friends
Who lives near -
Building managers or landlords
Who may have access -
Adult protective services
For concerns about elderly individuals -
Telehealth services
That can conduct virtual wellness checks
Important considerations
Keep these points in mind:
Source: cognology.net
- Wellness checks are not for resolve disputes or” check up ” n someone you’re curious about
- False reports can have legal consequences
- Some individuals may feel their privacy is violated
- Police presence can sometimes escalate situations with people in mental health crisis
- Consider cultural context where police interaction may cause additional stress
Follow up after a wellness check
After a wellness check:
- Reach out to the person if appropriate
- Connect them with ongoing support resources
- Consider a safety plan for future concerns
- Respect their boundaries and privacy
- Document the situation if ongoing concerns exist
