treatments for Chicago employees dealing with symptoms of
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Joint Committee: Health and Human Relations; Public
Safety
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, there is currently a mental health crisis among the City of Chicago's first responders, as well as in its labor workforce; and
WHEREAS, The City of Chicago has had twenty (20) deaths by suicide in the past four years by Chicago Police Officers. According to 2021 data, law enforcement personnel are 54% more likely to die by suicide than all other segments of the population; and
WHEREAS, according to a 2017 Justice Department research study, Chicago Police Department Officers were 60% more likely to die by suicide than the general population; and
WHEREAS, the Chicago Police Department has lost four (4) active duty police officers to suicide in just the past three (3) months as well as one (1) recent retiree; and
WHEREAS, former wellness advisor to the Chicago Police Department, Alexa James, has been quoted as saying the Chicago Police Department is in drastic need of a "comprehensive strategy" for assisting overworked officers, and that the officers "need a break" to reduce "hugely impactful" stress from the "inhumane" canceling of days off. Actions which affect decision-making and compounds disorders, stress, depression and anxiety; and
WHEREAS, mental health experts, like Ms. James, state clearly that the "City of Chicago must reimagine its strategy in regards to detecting, intervening, and saving officers who are on the brink of a mental health crisis"; and
WHEREAS, there are now more effective and innovative options for treatment to help our Chicago Police Officers, as well as every other employee of the City of Chicago affected by symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress including but not limited to: stress, depression, anxiety, hyper-vigilance, and self-destructive behaviors.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF CHICAGO, that we the members of the City Council of the City of Chica...
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