New Report Says Police Departments Need Mental Health Programs

As we wind down May and Mental Health Awareness Month, this new report reminds us how the battle wages on in all regards to mental health issues.

What started out as a regular day on air on that fateful day in December 2012 turned into, at least for me, a day that will never leave my memory. When I think of the fact that I was just reporting on it, taking calls from listeners, and following the coverage via numerous Connecticut TV stations, I can't even fathom the mind numbing affect the scene at Sandy Hook Elementary School had on first responders.

Now, according to a story from USNews.com, it seems as if the government is accepting the fact that there is a great need to help police and first responders with mental health issues.

The article says that a report released by the U.S. Justice Department and the National Alliance on Mental Illness, which was prompted by the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre, is urging police chiefs around the country to put mental health programs in place. These programs would help officers cope with on-the-job trauma, including the aftermath of mass shootings.

As someone who supports all realms of mental health awareness, I'm hopeful that police departments all around the country will initiate these must needed programs.