Devon and Cornwall Police claim a fifth of their time is now spent dealing with people who have mental health problems.
They say shrinking budgets are causing tension between police forces and healthcare providers.
The force's Assistant Chief Constable Paul Netherton says it's unacceptable.
Plans to change Torbay heart care dropped
Victory for campaigners
Torbay taxi driver stripped of licence after making video call
Driver carried passengers in untaxed vehicle
Row amplifies after public claims edited out
Comments made by a resident have been removed
By-election to decide new Fremington councillor
Five candidates in the running
University of Exeter students face the cost-of-living brunt
Many find themselves making changes to their habits
Devon is only county to have two sections on new coast route
King Charles III Coast Path inauguration today
