When someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis, knowing what to do can feel overwhelming. For many, the first instinct is to call 911 to ensure safety and immediate support. But once that call is made, what actually happens next? Who responds, how are they trained, and what resources are available for individuals and families in crisis?
To help answer these questions, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is hosting a live virtual Speaker Series event: Mental Health Calls to 911—What to Expect. This free, one-hour online session will be held on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 7:00 PM via Zoom. It’s an opportunity for community members to gain practical insights into the process, ask questions, and walk away with tools that could make a difference in an emergency situation.
Event Details at a Glance
Topic: Mental Health Calls to 911—What to Expect
Date & Time: Wednesday, September 17, 2025 @ 7 PM
Format: Virtual (Zoom)
Speakers: York Regional Police Constable Ava Griffith & Crisis Worker Mirelle L’Estrange
Registration: RSVP here to receive your Zoom link
Meet the Speakers
This session will feature perspectives from two experienced professionals who work directly in crisis response:
Constable Ava Griffith, York Regional Police – Constable Griffith brings years of experience as a frontline officer, including specialized training in responding to mental health emergencies. She will shed light on how police are prepared to handle these calls and what individuals can expect when officers arrive.
Mirelle L’Estrange, Crisis Worker – As part of the Mental Health Engagement Outreach Team, Mirelle provides on-site support and guidance during emergencies. She’ll share how crisis workers collaborate with police officers and families to de-escalate situations and connect individuals with the right resources.
Together, they’ll walk participants through the real-world steps taken when a 911 call for mental health assistance comes in, helping to reduce uncertainty and fear around these critical moments.
What You’ll Learn
Attendees will gain valuable insights into:
The immediate steps taken by police and crisis workers when they arrive at the scene
How officers are trained to approach situations involving mental health
Ways to prepare yourself or your loved ones to help ensure the safest possible outcome
Available resources in York Region that provide ongoing support after the emergency has passed
Why This Session Matters
Mental health emergencies don’t just affect the person in crisis—they impact friends, family members, colleagues, and the broader community. Unfortunately, many people hesitate to call for help because they don’t know what will happen next or fear the situation could worsen. This event is designed to replace uncertainty with knowledge.
By learning directly from law enforcement and crisis response professionals, participants will better understand how to navigate these situations and how community resources can play a role in recovery and ongoing care. This knowledge could prove invaluable in ensuring the safety, dignity, and well-being of those experiencing crisis.
Interactive Q&A
The session will conclude with an audience Q&A, giving participants a chance to ask their own questions and hear directly from Constable Griffith and Mirelle L’Estrange. Whether you’re a family member, a friend, or a professional supporting individuals in crisis, this is an opportunity to have your concerns addressed in a supportive environment.
Join the Conversation
Don’t miss this chance to gain a clearer understanding of how mental health-related 911 calls are handled in York Region. By attending, you’ll be better prepared to respond with confidence, compassion, and knowledge if a crisis ever arises in your life or community.
📅 Save the Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 7 PM
🔗 RSVP here to secure your Zoom link
📩 For additional questions, contact donations@cmha-yr.on.ca
