Does your community have a crisis line? My community has a crisis line where they will send people out if you are in the midst of a mental health crisis to mediate the situation and give an unbiased opinion regarding whether your boyfriend needs medical attention. Has he ever become physical? If so or even if he has ever threatened to become physical, this gives you the opportunity to telephone 911 and ask the police to intervene. They can require him to go to the ER and be evaluated. Neither of these two options results in charges being filed unless he actually strikes you or one of the children. If he threatens you, that is the signal to call 911. It is called assault. Assault does not mean actual physical contact. But it does allow you to call to 911. No charges will be filed as long as he is found mentally ill.

So, make your plans like Pomegranate said and do it quickly. In the meantime, keep these facts in mind and if he says anything that sounds like a threat of bodily harm, call 911 and they can take him to the ER.

Lots of hugs and best of luck.