Checking In on Officers: Lessons From an Officer Mental Health Check-ins Pilot

• In Event: Promoting Police Officer Health and Wellness

Abstract

Police officers encounter a variety of stresses, which can negatively affect their mental health (Edwards & Kotera, 2021; Jetelina et al., 2020; Tuckey et al.; Wester et al., 2010). With support from the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA), the Omaha Police Department began a pilot program in which officers (n ≈ 80) in select units participated in mandatory mental health check-ins with licensed clinicians. These check-ins are designed to reduce stigma around mental health, socialize officers with available resources, and help officers establish wellness routines. Preliminary data collected during the pilot included pre-surveys using treatment and control groups, post-surveys, and interviews and focus groups with participants and clinicians. Preliminary results show increased support for the program and its expansion following participation and a shift in perceptions about its potential to reduce stigma. Findings from this study provide suggestions for improvements and implications for policy changes. It also could serve as a template for other departments looking to implement mental health check-ins.

Authors

• Lexi Elizabeth Goodijohn, University of Nebraska Omaha

• Samantha S. Clinkinbeard, University of Nebraska Omaha

• Champ Champenstein, University of Nebraska Omaha