Mission police urge residents to call department’s mental‑health unit as holidays raise stress

Mission — Officers from the Mission Police Department’s mental‑health unit urged residents that the approaching holidays can increase stress and emotional distress and asked anyone in crisis to call the department’s non‑emergency line to request help.

Officer Hernandez, who introduced himself and “Officer Milo” as members of the department’s mental‑health unit, said the team responds when patrol officers call them to help deescalate individuals experiencing depression, anxiety or other mental‑health episodes and to connect people with community resources. “We are here to help,” Hernandez said.

The officers said they see a noticeable spike in crisis calls during the holidays. Hernandez said those increases include more cases in schools, with children experiencing seasonal depression, and more adults in crisis linked to financial pressure trying to support their families.

To request assistance, residents should call the Mission Police Department non‑emergency number, (956) 584‑5000, and ask for the mental‑health unit. Hernandez described the dispatch process: a communications officer takes the concern, then dispatches the mental‑health unit — which he said includes himself, Officer Milo and two other mental‑health officers — to respond and assess needs.

Hernandez said Officer Milo plays “a very intricate role” using different methods to help people feel calm so they can open up and get connected to appropriate services. The officers emphasized the unit’s role in deescalation and referral rather than enforcement.

The message closed with a direct appeal to anyone struggling: “Please don’t be afraid to reach out to us. You’re not alone,” Hernandez said.

The announcement was delivered as a community advisory; no formal actions or policy changes were announced.