A new initiative is being launched to provide mental health resources to law enforcement officers in Texas. The Blue Chip program, which offers free services, is expanding its reach statewide and has already helped reduce the number of suicides among police officers in the state.
According to the latest numbers released by the Blue Chip Program in 2022, 16 Texas law enforcement officers died by suicide, making it the highest number of any state that year. However, with programs like the Blue Chip program, police chiefs in North Texas are taking steps to address mental health issues such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
The Arlington Police Department has recently introduced a new program aimed at supporting officers after a shooting at an Allen outlet mall last year. This program, in collaboration with the Blue Chip Program, sets Texas apart as the only state offering law enforcement officers a peer support network and anonymous access to free mental health services.
Those in need of resources and support can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988 or use the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.
