Drunk woman on Königsplatz: Police intervened – case of coercion!

Drunk woman on Königsplatz: Police intervened – case of coercion!

Last Thursday there was an unexpected incident at Augsburger Königsplatz that attracted the attention of passers-by and the police. At around 12:45 p.m., a 45-year-old woman stood on the road to direct traffic herself. Witnesses reported the unusual action and called the police, who quickly arrived on site. However, when the officers arrived, the woman was anything but cooperative and insulted the police officers, which indicated a psychological emergency. Eventually she had to be taken to a hospital while the police opened an investigation against her for coercion in traffic and insults, as the [Augsburger Allgemeine](https://www.augsburger- Allgemeine.de/augsburg/betrunkene-frau-will-verkehr-am-augsburger-koe-regel-111535764) reports.

Such incidents shed light on the challenges police face, particularly when it comes to dealing with people in mental health crises. According to an analysis on the LVPEBW website, press reports about violent acts by people in exceptional psychological situations are often distorted and contribute to the stigmatization of those affected. Although individual assaults make headlines, most people with mental illness are not violent. Rather, better support could be offered through targeted de-escalation and training for the police in cooperation with crisis services, as presented at the Klinik Chiemseewinkel.

Dealing with psychological crises

The incident at Königsplatz reflects the need for police officers to learn how to deal sensitively with mentally ill people. The lack of knowledge about mental illnesses and adequate de-escalation strategies is not only evident in Augsburg, but is a nationwide problem. The complexity of mental illnesses, coupled with the pressure in the police service, which is often characterized by stressful operations and violent confrontations, can lead to dangerous situations. The psychological stress is often higher in security-related jobs, and many police officers are afraid to seek help for fear of stigmatization or professional disadvantages. However, the Police Social Service offers support and addresses the psychological stress that many officers experience.

It is important that the discussion about mental health, both among police trainees and the general public, finds more space in public. Initiatives such as the establishment of a “Police and Psyche” working group are intended to help develop strategies to improve contact between the police and mentally ill people. It is necessary to improve both support during acute crises and long-term support. This is the only way to effectively counteract stigmatization and raise society's awareness of issues relating to mental health.

As the discussion about the incident at Augsburger Königsplatz shows, there is still a lot to be done here. Expanding training and establishing crisis services can make a crucial contribution to increasing the safety of everyone involved and promoting understanding of mental illness. Socially, mental illnesses should be placed on the same level as physical illnesses. A rethink is required here so that every person, whether in the police or beyond, receives adequate help and support.