Press Article: Decline in Law Enforcement Suicides in Texas Linked to Innovative Support Program
DALLAS, TX – After consistently leading the nation in law enforcement suicides, Texas has witnessed a dramatic decline in these tragic incidents, largely attributed to a pioneering program initiated in Dallas. Mental health specialists have long recognized the mental strain experienced by police officers. They emphasize the critical importance of encouraging officers to seek help and providing accessible resources, as this can often be a life-saving endeavor.
Sgt. Zachary Saenz of the Edinburg Police Department recounts how a personal loss prompted him to confront his own mental health challenges. Struggling emotionally after his grandmother’s death, Saenz turned to a free app that connected him with a specially trained peer crisis intervention volunteer. "It literally saved my life," he reflects, grateful for the support that helped him navigate his struggles.
Research from the National Library of Medicine indicates that law enforcement officers are 54% more likely to die by suicide than the general population. In response to this alarming statistic, Dustin Schellenger founded the Texas Law Enforcement Peer Network in 2021 at UNT Dallas. This network connects officers to about 900 trained volunteers, making it essential for those in law enforcement to have someone to talk to without stigma.
The state has also mandated mental health wellness courses for officers to maintain certification, aiming to further reduce the barriers to seeking help. Since the program’s inception, officer suicides in Texas have reportedly decreased by 84%.
Saenz stresses the importance of recognizing that emotional struggles are normal reactions to the stresses of police work, paralleling the need for mental health care with that of physical injuries. For those interested in supporting this crucial initiative, the network welcomes volunteers to assist in addressing the mental health crisis within law enforcement.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
