Decision Tree: Taking Action

As you recall, the decision tree tool was designed to help you work through what to do if you see or hear something concerning. Module 2 focused on the very first box: Notice and Identify. This module focuses on what actions to take once you have identified something that is a concern. We will first discuss what concerns might indicate an imminent concern or danger and what actions you should take. Then we will discuss what options exist if you identify a concern that does not rise to an imminent concern or danger.  

Imminent Concerns: Contacting Law Enforcement 

Sometimes people become aware of a situation or information that may raise safety concerns. We may be concerned that something poses an immediate danger for an individual we are concerned about or others that person may harm. Potential behaviors that may indicate an imminent safety threat to oneself or others include:  

• Verbal, written, or online threats to others or themselves 
• Expressions of hopelessness 
• Severe agitation, confusion, hallucinations, delusions 
• Collecting an unusual number of weapons, ammunition, or other dangerous materials 
• Written or verbalized plan(s) to harm someone or themselves 

If you believe the harm is imminent or likely, it’s important that you contact law enforcement immediately by calling 911. Situations in which there is the possibility of immediate danger can quickly escalate, limiting the amount of time to intervene.  

If you decide contacting law enforcement is the appropriate action, you should be ready to share the following information:  

• What you saw, heard, or learned about and who is involved 
• When and where you saw, heard, or learned about the information 
• Description of the concerning behavior and why you feel concerned  

We understand that you may feel uncomfortable contacting law enforcement agencies about your concerns. It is common for people to fear for their own safety or to fear being judged by others for sharing information. You may also worry that by contacting law enforcement, the person you are concerned about may be harmed. It is important to know that contacting local law enforcement agencies regarding a concern is part of being a community member or professional who cares about the health and well-being of individuals and communities. Remember: healthy, respectful, helpful, and safe communities are those in which residents and practitioners feel responsible and are willing to intervene and do so in good faith. Acting early can make it more likely that the person you are concerned about can get the help they need. 

Non-Imminent Concerns 

Sometimes we become aware of information that makes us concerned, but there are not necessarily behaviors that indicate potential immediate threats to safety. As noted, we may see, hear or learn from others about the following behaviors:   

• Sudden change in physical appearance or personality 
• Isolating behavior 
• Obsessing about violence or weapons 
• Substance use (alcohol and/or drugs) 
• Affiliation with negative peer groups, such as those that promote violence or hate 
• Frequent fighting, chronic hitting, or initiation of physical fighting 
• Stalking (individuals or places) 
• Overreaction or aggressive behavior for seemingly minor reasons, especially if it is out of character 

There are different actions we can take when we become aware of these concerns. In the next section, we’ll review two such actions: engage, support and connect and contacting a trusted resource. Individuals may choose to pursue one or both of these actions. Your decision to pursue one or both will likely be impacted by different factors, including your relationship to the person you’re concerned about, the specific situation, and your own comfort level with each option.