Richmond police highlight support programs for Law Enforcement Suicide Awareness Day

RICHMOND, Ky. (FOX 56) — Sept. 26 is recognized as Law Enforcement Suicide Awareness Day in Kentucky — a day dedicated to honoring officers who have lost their lives to suicide and acknowledging the emotional and mental toll the job can take.

Law enforcement officers experience unique and sometimes traumatizing pressures in their daily work. In recent years, mental health support within police departments has become more critical than ever.

Sergeant Kelli Fraze, a Peer Support Specialist with the Richmond Police Department, spoke about the importance of mental health awareness within the force.

“We know what we’re getting ourselves into… to a certain extent, yes. But also, just recognize us as your neighbor, your friend, a colleague, and just as a human being,” Sgt. Fraze said. “We have the ability to be empathetic and sympathetic — and we are vulnerable, too. Sometimes when we’re put in traumatic situations, we need compassion and understanding. It’s hard for us, too.”

To help address these challenges, the Richmond Police Department operates a wellness initiative called CODE 4. The name is derived from a police radio code meaning “help needed” or “help given” — a fitting symbol for the program’s mission.

CODE 4 takes a holistic approach to wellness, focusing on the physical, mental, professional, and personal health of officers, department staff, and their families

While the program runs year-round, Fraze emphasized that Law Enforcement Suicide Awareness Day serves as a powerful reminder to officers that they’re not going through these experiences on their own.

“It sounds cliché and over used but I think it’s true and good to remember that you’re never alone,” she said.

An important message to those representing our Old Kentucky Home behind the badge.