Some new services are being provided on the ground through the charity Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH), which has opened a drop-in centre in Glasgow called the Nook.
“This is our solution to the current mental health crisis that Scotland faces,” said SAMH executive director Alex Cumming.
“Anybody aged 10 plus, young people, adults, families can come and start their mental health journey.”
Mr Cumming said over 900 people have been through its doors since it opened in October – including people referred there by the police.
“The police do a fantastic job, they’re really supportive and focus on people’s well-being,” he said.
“But they would say themselves that sometimes they’re not the best people to have those conversations.
“This is providing an opportunity for them to bring people here quicker, when they identify that other services are not required or relevant for them.”
Justice Secretary Angela Constance highlighted the reduction in mental health incidents recorded by the police and the results of the mental health pathway.
She said: “I recognise the impact of mental health-related incidents on policing, and I am grateful to officers for all they do to help those in distress.
“However, we know we must do more and we are working in partnership with Police Scotland, the Scottish Police Authority, health boards and local authorities to drive forward more improvements.”