Conclusions

Mental health issues and high rates of suicide of first responders are not a new phenomenon, but are a complex and pressing problem. Since the publication of our previous white paper, we have not witnessed a decrease in the rates of suicide of first responders, and the programs and policies targeted to address these issues remain inadequate. Programs that promote awareness of first responder mental health must be improved and expanded. Additional measures need to be taken, such as monitoring of the mental health of retired first responders and assessment of the mental health of newly hired personnel. This may include the use of risk assessment and preventive procedures to help reduce or eliminate the negative effects of exposure to traumatic incidents. Having fair and inclusive media coverage can

also help remove the stigma surrounding first responder suicides and assist in reducing the grief of affected families and colleagues. Additionally, mandated reporting of suicide deaths and non-fatal attempts is needed. Currently, no government organization requires mandated reporting of such deaths or attempts. Mandated reporting is important for understanding the multidimensional phenomenon of suicide and to better understand trends, patterns, and relationships in the data. Reducing suicide deaths and non-fatal attempts involves a multi-faceted approach with collaborative efforts. Lastly, officers are at greatest risk in the 12 hours they are off-duty (Johnson, 2019). Therefore, an action plan should be implemented as a prevention effort. According to Johnson, Papazoglou, Violanti, and Pascarella (2022): ...[a]n effective action plan should encompass officers, officers’ families, police managers, police health professionals, policy makers, and even political figures. The action plan should also occur in multiple perspectives in the form of raising awareness through small groups discussions and workshops, available hotlines, psychoeducational materials, and available support and services that can be provided to officers and their families maintaining their privacy and confidentiality. As well, periodic preventative assessments conducted by mental health professionals are imperative to prevent any emerging form of psychopathology or other mental health challenges that can increase the risk of self-harm (p. 270). Behind the numbers presented in this update are the faces and names of first responders who have died prematurely, and of countless family members, friends, and colleagues left behind. We must value and protect the wellbeing of those who take upon themselves to serve the public with courage and dedication in difficult and stressful roles.