A proactive approach is fundamental to the philosophy of community policing. This involves identifying problem situations and working with community partners to craft long-term solutions.  "Problem" situations involving people with mental illness are those that result in repeat calls to the police.  These situations may not be resolved by existing protocols, may escalate in seriousness, and require a more in-depth look into the underlying causes of the problem.

To identify these cases, agencies must review internal databases designed to capture information on situations involving people with mental illness. As mentioned previously, some departments review CAD system data to reveal locations that previously have involved violence or that result in frequent calls for service. Other agencies review supplemental data forms collected by crisis intervention teams. 

Once the case has been identified, law enforcement personnel should work closely with their mental health partners to identify the precise nature of the problem and the possible causes. ^[1]     Together police and mental health providers can then determine a course of action to help the person avoid further contacts with the police. It is always preferable for mental health personnel to conduct follow-up visits, should they be required, although some departments have paired a mental health professional with an officer who is not in uniform.