Navigation Ag Moody, Law Enforcement Leaders and Counselors Encourage Officers Struggling With Mental Health Challenges to Seek Help During National Suicide Prevention Month
In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month, Attorney General Ashley Moody, local law enforcement leaders and counselors are encouraging officers struggling with mental health challenges to seek help. Nationwide, more first responders die by suicide than in the line of duty. In Florida this year, five law enforcement officers have taken their own lives compared to three officers falling in the line of duty. At the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay today, Attorney General Moody highlighted free resources available to first responders and urged law enforcement officers to seek help.
Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “Law enforcement is a dangerous job and officers can be exposed to gruesome tragedies that leave invisible scars. It’s important our law enforcement heroes know that they do not have to suffer in silence. This National Suicide Prevention Month, we are highlighting free resources available to Florida first responders struggling with mental health challenges—and urging them to seek help.”
Crisis Center of Tampa Bay CEO Clara Reynolds said, “I am extremely thankful to Attorney General Moody for bringing awareness to this vital topic. Florida’s first responders are trained to run toward danger and be our community’s heroes during life’s most difficult events. Unfortunately, they are the last to ask for help when facing a behavioral health challenge. We encourage first responders and their loved ones to reach out and connect to support 24/7 at 1-866-4FL-HERO (435-4376).”
