Few know that police officers are at a higher risk of suicide than any other profession, with the number of police officers who die by suicide greater than three times the number of those that were injured in the line of duty. Additionally, the vast majority of officers and soldiers who take their lives do so at home, using their service weapons. To discuss why these rates are so high amongst law enforcement, and what people can do to decrease rates of firearm suicide, host JJ is joined by Brady President Kris Brown and Steve Hough of Blue HELP. Blue HELP is an organization devoted to reducing mental health stigmas through education, to advocate for benefits for those suffering from post-traumatic stress, and to acknowledge the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers lost to suicide, assist officers in their search for healing, and to bring awareness to suicide and mental health issues.

Mentioned in this podcast:

• The Price They Pay (Solomon, McGill)
• Law Enforcement Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SAMHSA)
• Breaking the Silence: Suicide Prevention for Law Enforcement Video Facilitation Guide (National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention)