Bloomington Police Enhance Officer Wellness with New Program

The Bloomington Police Department in Minnesota has launched an innovative program aimed at enhancing the mental health of its officers. With statistics indicating that one in every seven police officers worldwide suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression, the initiative underscores the importance of mental wellness in law enforcement.

Amos Olivarez, the department’s wellness director, plays a pivotal role in this effort. He emphasizes the need for officers to check in on one another, recognizing the heavy burdens they carry. “What I see is this beautiful picture of what wellness could eventually be for us,” Olivarez stated, reflecting on the potential benefits of the program. Although he does not wear a badge, his presence on the streets gives him a unique perspective on the pressures officers face daily.

Olivarez points out that police work often involves responding to individuals during their most distressing moments. “They are dealing with people on their absolute worst day for the most part,” he explained. The stress of policing in the Twin Cities is particularly intense, where officers must navigate high-stakes situations with compassion and adherence to protocol.

Sgt. Nick Sassor, a seasoned officer, acknowledges the cumulative stressors inherent in the job. “The stress of this job, both dealing with the calls in the streets…and the internal politics of local government…takes a toll on you,” Sassor noted. His lifelong aspiration to become a police officer drives his commitment to the profession, despite the emotional challenges he encounters.

Throughout his career, Sassor has experienced both the triumphs and tragedies of law enforcement. He recalls a particularly harrowing incident involving an infant, illustrating the heavy emotional toll such experiences can take. “Giving that news to the mom, it’s devastating, it’s really hard to do,” he said.

This new wellness program, spearheaded by Olivarez, aims to foster camaraderie and support within the department. Sassor has witnessed a notable shift in the department’s culture towards prioritizing mental health. “There’s just a lot more camaraderie and togetherness, and just knowing that the department cares about your mental health,” he said.

Olivarez, who has a background as a pastor and previously volunteered with the police department, was brought on board following a grant secured by Chief Booker T. Hodges. “We need to make sure that our officers are healthy,” Hodges stated. He believes aligning the department’s values with community expectations is crucial for effective policing.

Through his holistic approach, Olivarez encourages officers to engage in physical fitness, maintain work-life balance, and seek mental health support. “Before it was just dust yourself up and you’ll be fine,” Sassor observed, highlighting the program’s evolution toward more proactive measures.

Olivarez remains committed to normalizing wellness within the police force. “We’re going to do our very best to fight against that,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for a culture that prioritizes mental health.

For those experiencing emotional distress, help is readily available. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988, where trained crisis counselors are available 24 hours a day. Additionally, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers support through its helpline at 800-950-6264 or by texting “HelpLine” to 62640. With over 600 local NAMI organizations across the country, many provide free resources and education programs.

As the Bloomington Police Department implements this forward-thinking initiative, it sets a precedent for prioritizing the mental health of officers, ultimately benefiting both the police force and the community they serve.