Law enforcement officers face tremendous challenges on a daily basis, often sacrificing their well-being for the safety and security of others. Unfortunately, the mental health and emotional toll of their profession can sometimes lead to devastating consequences, including suicide. Recognizing the urgent need to address this issue, Bank the Blue has partnered with Dr. Olivia Johnson and Blue Wall Institute to offer The Fatal 10 of Law Enforcement Suicide training. This groundbreaking program aims to equip Illinois law enforcement officers with the knowledge and tools to identify, address, and prevent suicide risk factors among their peers. Read more to understand the significance of this training initiative and its potential to save lives, families, and careers.
Understanding The Fatal 10
The Fatal 10 training program, developed by Dr. Olivia Johnson, is based on a comprehensive analysis of nearly 700 cases of law enforcement and correctional officer suicides. Dr. Johnson identified ten major themes, known as the FATAL 10, which significantly contribute to these tragic outcomes. The training seeks to raise awareness, enhance understanding, and provide practical strategies to mitigate suicide risk factors within law enforcement communities.
About Dr. Olivia Johnson
Dr. Olivia Johnson has a master’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Missouri, St. Louis, and a doctorate in Organizational Leadership Management from the University of Phoenix, School of Advanced Studies. As the founder of the Blue Wall Institute, she focuses on consulting, needs assessment, and training. Dr. Johnson’s dedication to raising awareness of the challenges faced by first responders led her to be named the Illinois State Representative and an active Board Member for the National P.O.L.I.C.E. Suicide Foundation. In these roles, she conducts research, publishes articles, and collaborates with agencies in need.
Dr. Johnson brings a wealth of experience to her work. She is a veteran of the United States Air Force, a former police officer, and a published author. Her professional affiliations include being an Associate Member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), Associate Member of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police (ILACP), member of the International Law Enforcement Educators & Trainers (ILEETA), the National POLICE Suicide Foundation (PSF), National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), and Illinois Suicide Prevention Alliance member and Suicidology Researcher. She is also a member of the Illinois Academy of Criminology (IAC), the Society for Police and Clinical Psychology (SPCP), and the American Association of Suicidology (AAS). Dr. Johnson volunteers her expertise with the AAS and serves on the Forensic Behavioral Health Advisory Board Committee.
Dr. Johnson’s extensive knowledge and experience have made her a recognized subject expert (SE) in areas such as police officer health and wellness, police officer suicide, and suicide prevention and awareness in first responders. She has served as an Advisory Board member for the VALOR Officer Safety and Wellness Program, contributing to curriculum review for de-escalation training and techniques. Previously, she worked as a Senior Research Associate for the Institute for Intergovernmental Research, serving as a Lead Instructor for the VALOR Officer Safety Program and as the Program Advisor and Lead Instructor for the SAFLEO (National Suicide Awareness for LE Officers) Program. Recently, Dr. Johnson achieved her Law Enforcement Psychological Autopsy Certification from the American Association of Suicidology.
Dr. Olivia Johnson’s diverse background, expertise, and extensive involvement in various organizations demonstrate her unwavering commitment to supporting law enforcement officers’ well-being. Her research, training, and advocacy contribute significantly to the field of law enforcement mental health and suicide prevention. Through her collaborations with Bank the Blue, she brings invaluable knowledge and guidance to The Fatal 10 of Law Enforcement Suicide training program, enhancing its effectiveness and impact on saving lives within the Illinois law enforcement community.
Training Objectives
By participating in The Fatal 10 training, Illinois law enforcement officers will acquire essential skills to predict and manage suicide risk factors, identify suicidal ideations, and effectively address questionable behaviors before they lead to negative outcomes. The program aims to empower officers to take proactive measures in protecting their mental health, supporting their peers, and ultimately saving lives. Upon completion of the training, attendees will receive an ILETSB certification of completion that satisfies the requirements of the Illinois SAFE-T Act.
Key Learning Objectives
Familiarity with the Fatal 10 Components:
The training will provide officers with a comprehensive understanding of the ten major themes that contribute to law enforcement suicides. Through interactive discussions and case studies, participants will gain insights into these factors and their impact on mental health and well-being.
Recognition of Personal and Occupational Risk Factors
Officers will learn to identify personal and occupational risk factors that may contribute to mental health struggles both on and off duty. By recognizing these warning signs, individuals can take proactive steps to prioritize their mental well-being and seek necessary support.
Understanding the Common Profile of Police Officer Suicide
The training delves into the common profile associated with law enforcement suicides, based on the Fatal 10. Participants will gain valuable insights into the psychological and emotional challenges officers may face, facilitating a greater understanding and empathy towards their peers.
Developing a Game Plan for Risk Reduction
Equipped with knowledge and understanding, attendees will be empowered to develop an individualized game plan to reduce suicide risks. Through strategies such as inoculation, officers can proactively strengthen their mental resilience and create a supportive network within their law enforcement community.
Impact and Benefits
The Fatal 10 of Law Enforcement Suicide training holds immense potential for preventing tragic losses within the law enforcement community. By raising awareness and providing officers with the tools to recognize and address suicide risk factors, lives can be saved, families can be spared from grief, and careers can be preserved.
Bank The Blue’s Commitment
Bank the Blue’s commitment to funding The Fatal 10 training for thousands of Illinois law enforcement officers showcases their dedication to the well-being of those who serve and protect. By investing in this initiative, Bank the Blue demonstrates a holistic approach to supporting law enforcement professionals, recognizing the importance of mental health and the need for preventative measures within the field.
For upcoming dates and locations, please visit https://banktheblue.com/fatal-10/