Today Marks National Law Enforcement Suicide Awareness Day
TIVERTON — Chief Patrick Jones is pleased to share the launch of a new mobile wellbeing app that gives Tiverton Police officers 24/7 access to a nationwide network of peer volunteers to access anonymous support and resources on their own terms.
The PowerLine app, built specifically for first responders, provides officers of all ranks with dedicated resources and 24/7 support, including anonymous access to a nationwide network of peer volunteers. The app also provides a wellbeing resource library and self-assessments.
The app is completely anonymous. Random display names and user icons mean users can never be identified, giving officers access to support without the risk of judgment or career consequences.
The app also provides department leadership with valuable insights into how PowerLine is being used with a dashboard of anonymized data showing how often the app is accessed and topics with the most engagement. Leadership can then address common themes and drive future wellness initiatives while officer data remains anonymous.
Today, Sept. 26, is recognized by Blue H.E.L.P. as National Law Enforcement Suicide Awareness Day. Blue H.E.L.P., a nonprofit dedicated to honoring the service of law enforcement officers who have died by suicide, reports 171 law enforcement officers lost to suicide in 2022, and 66 thus far in 2023. September is also recognized as Suicide Prevention Month.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States. Data have shown that law enforcement officers face a greater risk of suicide. A report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration also states that police officers have a higher likelihood of experiencing critical incidents and traumatic events, which can increase their risk of behavioral health conditions such as post-traumatic stress and depression.
The scarcity of wellness resources, combined with the stigma and fear of potential career consequences of using those resources, can lead to many first responders not getting the support they need.
“The wellbeing of our officers is a top priority for the department, and it is important that we have the resources and tools in place to assist people where they are on their wellness journey,” said Lt. John LeDuc. “We are confident that PowerLine will be a valuable tool to empower officers to access the support and resources they need to work through the toughest parts of the job and continue to best serve our community.”
For more information and resources on Suicide Prevention Month, visit nami.org.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 9-8-8 or chat 988lifeline.org to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
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