Rep. Sheehan Introduces Resolution Declaring May 2025 as Law Enforcement Mental Health Awareness Month (Homer Glen, IL) State Representative Patrick Sheehan (R-Lockport) recently filed new legislation declaring May 2025 as Law Enforcement Mental Health Awareness Month in Illinois. House Resolution 40 recognizes the ongoing mental health challenges faced by police officers and calls for additional resources to reduce the suicide rate in law enforcement.
“There are few professions that bring about more trauma, stress, and anxiety than law enforcement,” said Rep. Sheehan, who has served as a police officer for nearly two decades. “Unique pressures and emotional tolls come with the badge and leave far too many officers feeling alone or hopeless. Our legislature must do everything it can to protect those who protect our communities. This resolution is one small step in doing that.”
As outlined in HR40, post-traumatic stress disorder is twice as prevalent among police than the general population, with rates of depression also sitting at roughly double that of those in other professions. The frequency of mental health issues, stigma around seeking help with them, and lack of available resources tailored to law enforcement can leave many cases of mental illness among officers untreated, and in turn, lead to severe health crises or suicide.
“Our first responders are heroes; known for their bravery, and rightfully so,” Sheehan said. “As a result, many folks may assume their ability to rush to any emergency without hesitation means they are immune to experiencing emotions on the job. Unfortunately, no amount of training, experience, or mental fortitude can completely negate the emotional impact that this line of work carries. While these effects are unavoidable, they can be dealt with through mental health treatment. But, that can only work if our officers are willing and able to share their struggles. We have to work towards fostering an environment where the bravest among us are not afraid to speak up about their mental health.”
In addition to declaring May 2025 as Law Enforcement Mental Health Awareness Month, House Resolution 40 urges the Federal Bureau of Investigation to effectively track and report suicide statistics among law enforcement nationally through the Law Enforcement Officers Suicide Data Collection Program (LEOSDCP) and urges the State of Illinois to establish its own LEOSDCP to reduce the profession’s suicide rate. HR40 also supports the implementation of programs to encourage the reporting and treatment of mental health illnesses among law enforcement officers.
“While there have been numerous efforts, both in Illinois and elsewhere, to reduce the prevalence of depression, PTSD, and suicide among law enforcement, there are still significant hurdles that many in this field have to deal with,” said Sheehan. “By raising awareness and offering more effective resources to address the struggles officers deal with, we can make meaningful strides in combating the mental health crisis in law enforcement.”
Rep. Sheehan Introduces Resolution Declaring May 2025 as Law Enforcement Mental Health Awareness Month
