What is a wellness check?

A wellness check, also known as a welfare check, is a visit by law enforcement or other designated individuals to an individual's home to ensure their safety and well-being. It is typically requested by concerned friends, family members, or neighbors who haven't been able to reach someone and are worried about their health or safety.

Reasons for Requesting a Wellness Check:

• Sudden lack of communication: If someone stops responding to calls, texts, or emails without explanation, especially if this is unusual for them.
• Concerning statements or behaviors: If someone has made statements suggesting they are contemplating self-harm or experiencing a mental health crisis.
• Change in routine: Significant deviations from someone's typical routine, such as missing work or appointments, can be a cause for concern.
• Visible signs of distress: Obvious signs of neglect, such as uncollected mail or newspapers, overgrown yard, or open doors or windows, can prompt a wellness check.

What Happens During a Wellness Check:

• Authorities will typically visit the individual's residence and attempt to make contact.
• They may knock on the door, ring the doorbell, and look for signs of occupancy.
• If they can't get a response, they may attempt to enter the property, especially if there's reason to believe the person is in immediate danger.
• If they make contact, they will assess the individual's physical and mental condition. This may involve asking questions about their well-being, observing their behavior, and checking for any signs of injury or illness.
• Depending on the situation, they may provide assistance, such as connecting the individual with medical or mental health services.
• In some cases, they may take the individual into protective custody if they believe they are a danger to themselves or others.

Important Considerations:

• Requesting a wellness%20check is not a substitute for medical or mental health treatment. It is a short-term intervention to assess someone's well-being.
• The person being checked may not appreciate the intrusion, even if it comes from a place of concern.
• Law enforcement has the discretion to determine the appropriate course of action based on the circumstances.
• If you are concerned about someone's immediate safety, call 911 or your local emergency services.
• If you suspect a mental%20health%20crisis, you may also contact a crisis hotline or mental health professional.
• Consider reaching out to emergency%20services if there is an immediate threat to life or safety.