Increased attention on police officer use of force and the increase in officer suicides have been the impetus for increased support of police officer’s mental health and wellness.  Police officers are repeatedly exposed to destruction and death throughout their careers, which is why law enforcement is consistently listed as one of the most stressful occupations in the world.  Officers regularly deal with both occupational and organizational stressors daily, yet many do not recognize the mental health impacts the profession has on their lives nor do they disclose or access treatment.  Police officers are susceptible to suffering from numerous detrimental effects on their physical and psychological wellbeing from a career in law enforcement.  Despite these life-altering issues and the increased attention on police officers’ wellness, many officers refuse to seek help because they fear it will adversely affect their careers, they will be seen as weak, or their agency does not have wellness resources. 

The Phoenix Police Department has placed a priority on total employee wellbeing, becoming the leader in the State of Arizona and nationally recognized employee wellness programs.  The Department has seen enormous growth in the programs and resources available to its employees, by taking a holistic, proactive approach to employee wellness.  The Phoenix Police Department utilizes a three-pronged approach to assist their employees and their families by providing confidential crisis intervention, peer support, and resources for wellness services, ensuring their physical, emotional, spiritual, and psychological wellbeing.  The Department also implemented new programs with incentives to encourage employees to be healthy.  These programs and practices support a variety of resources to improve overall health and wellness issues and ensure personnel resources are maximized throughout the organization for peak performance in addressing the City’s public safety needs.