Mental Health Outreach
Officers say mental health calls are the top safety risk — here’s how patrol and leadership can work toward change
Officers can’t solve homelessness alone, but smart partnerships and specialized training show a better way forward
First responders need to prioritize mental health and seek help when needed
Just 30 minutes after completing Axon’s VR TASER training, Lincoln PD Officer Alessandra Winterbauer used her TASER 10 to prevent a suicide-by-cop outcome
Instead of a desk and ergonomic chairs, there’s a plush recliner, carpets and soft lighting; there’s a refrigerator and a tray of snacks, toys for kids, and a change of clothes
Researchers say untreated addiction in the home heightens risks for kids and calls for earlier intervention
Mental Health
In New Jersey, 40 officer suicide deaths have been reported from 2018 through 2024
A wave of new bills throughout the country would establish peer networks, crisis hotlines and insurance coverage for trauma-related conditions like PTSD
The 34-year-old officer, assigned to the 18th District CAPS unit, was remembered by colleagues as compassionate and deeply devoted to her family
“When I’m on the street and I’m serving in the community, I think of someone being my [family member.] Everyone is a family member to someone,” Officer Vanity Cordero said
Multiagency peer support teams provide confidential, compassionate support across agency lines; learn how they enhance well-being
The deaths of current and former Harris County Sheriff’s deputies highlight the mental health risks facing officers after they retire or leave the profession
Mental Health
The Blue Ribbon Task Force on Peace Officer Wellness would operate over two years to review state policy and develop wellness recommendations for agencies statewide
Following a Ninth Circuit decision on use of force, one sheriff’s new policy has sparked debate over legal interpretation, responder safety and the future of crisis response models
Mental Health
Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Josh Hawley have introduced a bill aimed at expanding mental health support for police officers, firefighters and EMTs
Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper will discuss his agency’s recent decision to no longer respond to mental health calls where a crime is not being committed
Recently featured on “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” Craig and Rob Lewis offer a creative outlet that helps active and retired service members and first responders cope with the trauma and stress of the job through classic car restoration
Mental Health
The East Lansing Police Department introduced Cordico, a wellness app that provides users with access to mental health resources and allows employees to seek help anonymously
Mental Health
The Detectives Endowment Association stated that some cops fear jeopardizing their careers by participating in NYPD-affiliated programs; the new program allows for complete anonymity
“She’s brought a [very calming] presence to our building and to our community,” Fremont County Sheriff’s Deputy Logan Roberts said. “She’s done some really good work.”
“It gave me a broader understanding, more compassion, a different perspective,” said Troy Frazier, assistant chief of Titusville Fire Department
“The program includes evidence-based treatment, and recovery support for persons with opioid use disorder… and mental health disorders,” the Richmond Sheriff’s Office stated
Police face high rates of mental health issues like stress, PTSD and suicidal ideation; fixing this is key to effective public safety
Mental Health
“By reducing the stigma surrounding suicide and expanding support for at-risk veterans and first responders, New York is leading the way,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said
Redmond PD’s new B&W patrol vehicles feature 988 crisis line graphics, emphasizing mental health support and community engagement
Access practical strategies for fostering collaboration and improving outcomes during acute behavioral emergencies
Mental Health
Leaders say departments need to be open to having difficult conversations, understand what first responders are experiencing and improve access to mental health services
Mental Health
‘Too much ugliness': Maine PD chief announces he will step down, citing the job’s mental health toll
“Mental health needs to be treated like any other illness or injury,” Baileyville Chief Bob Fitzsimmons wrote. “It’s ok to talk about it, it’s ok to seek treatment without shame”
The Trauma Intervention Program is staffed by specially trained volunteers who assist first responders, bridging the gap between trauma victims and law enforcement
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