CHARLOTTE, N.C. — WCNC Charlotte's Lexi Wilson sat down with CMPD Police Chief Johnny Jennings to have a conversation about dealing with mental health among officers.
So far this year, 85 officers have died by suicide across the country, according to the nonprofit group Blue Help. That's 33 more officers than those who have died in the line of duty, according to the FBI.
On the front lines, officers encounter damage, death, and destruction. At times, this can take a toll on law enforcement personnel.
“It’s a lot of pressure to be a police officer," Chief of Police at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Johnny Jennings said. “You’re going to see things that normal human beings shouldn’t have to see; you’re going to be dealt with situations that normal people don’t have to deal with.”
According to Blue Help, officers are twice as likely to die by suicide than from confrontation with criminals.
“It’s something every agency has to be concerned with,’ Jennings said.
Chief Jennings said they've been working to dismantle the mental health stigma in the department by having open conversations.
“We have people who are well known and well renounced throughout our agency that have come out and said, I’ve had times where I’ve needed help," Jennings said.
CMPD offers resources like its Behavioral Health Team and anonymous counseling and CMPD recruitment classes are going through suicide prevention training.
It helps officers aid someone who is in crisis or suicidal, recognize early warning signs, and help themselves.
“They get a humongous dose of how to help somebody, including themselves," mental health advocate Fonda Bryant said.
As a suicide survivor, Bryant said she's trained around 100 officers. She believes it gives life-saving tools.
“It’s okay to get help," Bryant said. “Hey, are you alright, are you okay, and gives them an opportunity to talk about what they’re going through.”
Chief Jennings wants officers to understand the importance of speaking up.
“There are times when you’re down that you don’t ever feel like you’re going to get back up," Jennings said. "Whether it's professional counseling, whether it’s through friendships or family, you have to have someone outside to be able to talk to. You’re not expected to be able to have to go through it alone."
Jennings said there's never reprimand for seeking help, but they do have to ensure officers are fit to serve the public.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicide you can call or text 988 or chat at 988Lifeline.org.
If you or a loved one are facing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, there is help readily available. You can call Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat with them online. There are also resources in North Carolina available here and in South Carolina available here.
Contact Lexi Wilson at lwilson@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.