(MET) Mental Health Evaluation Teams

(MET) Mental Health Evaluation Teams, what do they do:

Mental Health Evaluation Teams (MET) typically refer to specialized teams of professionals who are trained to respond to crisis situations involving individuals who may be experiencing a mental health crisis. The exact composition and responsibilities of METs can vary from one location to another. However, here are some common functions and responsibilities of METs:

1. Crisis Intervention: METs are often dispatched to situations where individuals are in crisis due to mental health issues. This could include individuals who are experiencing severe emotional distress, exhibiting signs of psychosis, or posing a risk to themselves or others.
2. Assessment: METs conduct on-the-spot assessments of the individual’s mental health status. They evaluate the person’s immediate needs and level of risk.
3. De-escalation: One of the primary roles of METs is to de-escalate situations. They use their training to communicate with the individual in crisis in a way that reduces tension and helps prevent the situation from escalating into violence.
4. Referral and Treatment: METs can refer individuals to appropriate mental health services, such as crisis centers, psychiatric facilities, or outpatient treatment. They may also help connect individuals with ongoing mental health care and support.
5. Collaborative Approach: METs often consist of a team of professionals, including mental health clinicians, social workers, and sometimes law enforcement officers. This collaborative approach allows for a variety of skills and expertise to be brought to the situation.
6. Training and Education: METs may provide training to other first responders and community organizations on how to better handle situations involving individuals with mental health challenges.
7. Follow-up: Some METs follow up with individuals after the crisis to ensure they are connected to appropriate mental health services and are receiving the support they need for their recovery.

It’s important to note that the structure and functions of METs can vary widely from one jurisdiction to another. Additionally, there has been an increasing emphasis on diverting individuals with mental health issues away from the criminal justice system and into appropriate mental health care. Therefore, the role and operation of METs have been evolving in response to changing approaches to mental health crisis intervention.

Since policies and practices in the field of mental health can change over time, I recommend consulting local authorities or mental health organizations for the most up-to-date information on METs and their specific functions in your area.

Shervan K Shahhian