Deflection Directions: Philosophies and Concepts Blending Public Health, Public Safety and Communities

EN | Abstract: Inclusion of classical and contemporary public health principles in public safety philosophies of Deflection are essential in design and implementation of resulting programming. By examining learned lessons from public health theories, and engaging communities, both in recovery and not, Deflection can become a sustainable contribution of both safety and health to communities-at-large. This paper provides directives to philosophical foundations for Deflection that can assist with subsequent developments of programs moving forward that are responsive to the cultural needs of communities in need of mental health, and substance use disorder treatment diversion, as well as the public safety professionals that dispense such services. In addition, the paper explains how public safety systems-based engagement with communities, both those who are currently in recovery from these conditions, and those health is harmed vicariously by lacks of safety, can lead to customized, community levels of compassion and reductions of stigma for communities living with these conditions. In short, effective Deflection philosophies and customized frameworks can foster not only community-level safety but also health promotion and preventive capital. Key Words: deflection, health promotion, pre-arrest diversion, public safety, public health, SDG 1, SDG 3, SDG 5, SDG 10, SDG 16, SDG.