THE OWL
DALLAS POLICE DEPARTMENT WELLNESS NEWSLETTER VOLUME XII
A Message from the Dallas Police Chaplains
A Message from Chief Eddie Garcia
Thoughts on Wellness
Mindfulness
8 Facts About Mindfulness:
- Mindfulness is not obscure or exotic. It’s familiar to us because it’s what we already do, how we already are. It takes many shapes and goes by many names.
- Mindfulness is not a special added thing we do. We already have the capacity to be present, and it doesn’t require us to change who we are. But we can cultivate these innate qualities with simple practices that are scientifically demonstrated to benefit ourselves, our loved ones, our friends and neighbors, the people we work with, and the institutions and organizations we take part in
- You don’t need to change. Solutions that ask us to change who we are or become something we’re not have failed us over and over again. Mindfulness recognizes and cultivates the best of who we are as human beings.
- Mindfulness has the potential to become a transformative social phenomenon. Here’s why:
- Anyone can do it. Mindfulness practice cultivates universal human qualities and does not require anyone to change their beliefs. Everyone can benefit and it’s easy to learn.
- It’s a way of living. Mindfulness is more than just a practice. It brings awareness and caring into everything we do—and it cuts down needless stress. Even a little makes our lives better.
- It’s evidence-based. We don’t have to take mindfulness on faith. Both science and experience demonstrate its positive benefits for our health, happiness, work, and relationships.
- It sparks innovation. As we deal with our world’s increasing complexity and uncertainty, mindfulness can lead us to effective, resilient, low-cost responses to seemingly intransigent problems.
Relevance of Terror Management Theory
Highlighted Employee of Wellness
Sgt. Gordon Fulton
- Can you tell us about how your perception has changed on how you approach mental health and overall wellness?
My perception changed in realizing that I now recognize seeking mental health help is not a sign of weakness.
For the longest time, perhaps, because of the policing culture, the way I was trained, or just my own pride/ego. I was under the assumption that if you were to seek counseling or therapy after having seen something on a call that it was a sign of weakness, that others on the department would look at you like a pariah for admitting that something 'got to you'.
The fact that I've come to realize is that none of that is true, and that my approach now is that I actually talk out whatever is bothering me. whether it be with a therapist, or a close friend on the department; I don't just bottle up everything and wait for the cork to pop off.
- When the incident on July 7th, 2016, occurred can you talk about how it impacted you over the next several years?
When 7/7 happened, just like for many others on the department, it rocked me to my core. I had come into this profession knowing that violence against me was probable 'just because'. But I had never expected or prepared myself for if it were to happen to so many of my coworkers in the same incident or that those that I could call my friends would die.
Over the years I bottled up all the sadness, anger, hate, and rage that I felt. I would show up to work with a continuously negative mindset. I eventually turned it into self-loathing, self pity and self hate. I directed it to myself in a manner of wishing that I had died instead. All I could think was 'they had families, they had children. I'm a nobody and I get to live instead of them?"
All of this depression led me to drink more and more. I didn't celebrate my birthday anymore (It's on 7/7), I instead used it as a reason to get absolutely backout drunk and pass out in my home. Isolation at home with a bottle when I was off duty became the only feeling of comfort that I could have for the next several years.
- How have you changed your approach to your own wellness?
My approach to my own wellness has taken a 180-degree turn. I've recognized over the last year and 9 months, that speaking up is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of resiliency. My mindset towards it in my opinion was the biggest challenge. Letting go of my ego/pride and trusting in a process of mental health and wellness was the biggest hurdle, but the most important. Once I allowed myself to stop all this negative thinking from consuming me, and preventing me from speaking out. I've realized that the best approach is a quicker reactive approach. What i mean about this, is that if something just isn't sitting right mentally, weather it be at home, work, or whatever, I get a jump on it. I reach out to a friend or if its something that i cannot quite put my finger on, i contact a therapist so that i can talk whatever it might be out.
- As a Supervisor, what can you do to better lead your troops that may be struggling?
As a supervisor I cannot say what i can do better, that would need to come from my troops on what they feel i need to change. As of right now, I try to lead my troops that may be struggling by being honest with them. At this point I don't believe that showing chips in ones armor as a sign of a poor supervisor, so i open up to my troops about my own struggles. I try to get them to trust in the processes that the department has in place.
I explain to them my own struggles, i talk about the dark mental rabbit hole that i buried myself to the point of my own death because of my alcoholism. I openly share that I was diagnosed with PTSD, i share with them about treatments that the department offers from the alcohol rehabilitation program, to therapy sessions that deal with EMDR. I show them as living proof, that the department doesn't care in the sense that there is no stigma, that all the department wants is for each officer to be mentally fit each and everyday, that the 6th floor truly does care about them.
- Tell us about how you have changed your approach to self care?
I changed my approach to self care, by actually caring about myself. For the years and years, time I couldn't have cared less about my mental health, physical fitness, or my spiritual fitness. Today, I do whatever i can to make sure that i am mentally ready for the work week. That if I feel that something is 'off' I make appointments at that moment, that way if something else comes up in the week, i can talk about that as well when the appointment date arrives.
Although I don't workout as much as I know i should, i do watch what i eat. for the longest time i are only see-food (i see the food i eat the food). That manner of living, by using food as a comfort along with drinking alcohol, led to several negative side effects that although were affecting me physically/ medically, it was also affecting me mentally.
My spiritual self care, it feels new. Not everyone has a religion or religious affiliation, but i had grown up in the church, and after 7/7 abandoned my faith, and all faith for that matter. Returning to my faith and going on a more frequent basis, brings me a more secure feeling of inner peace that i need from time to time.
This last one for me is very specific because I'm an alcoholic. But going to meeting weekly is apart of my self care. I go to at minimum 1 A.A. meeting a week if not 2. These meetings for me are the most important to my self care. Because if I manage to convince myself that something that's actually bothering me isn't...these groups of alcoholic will without hesitation call me out on my bulls**t and getting called out is sometimes necessary.
- What is your biggest challenge in this wellness journey?
My biggest challenge in this wellness journey is TRUST. I spent so long under the impression that you can never show weakness, because if you do, you're worthless. That if you trust anything that the department presents to you, you're a fool, because they will specifically use that olive branch as a whip and beat you with it.
That mindset was the biggest challenge to me and it almost caused me to lose my life. Considering that I am actually typing this, the trust i showed to so many obviously paid off. It took close to 6 years for me to finally reach out and show trust in this department and those in it. (I've told so these people that i would always mention them in this regard).
The trust that I showed LT Valentine in breaking down begging for help because I couldn't stop drinking led me to The Trust I showed to Officer King/ SGT Fig/ S.C Massey in the wellness unit by meeting with them and them getting me set up in the Department's Alcohol program. The Trust that i showed Chief Garcia and Chief Ramirez in utilizing their developed program and that it would not be used against me. Six people, and one program. I showed all the vulnerability, and trust that I could possibly give within a 24hour period, when I had spent so many years being distrustful; for me this was unheard of.
Physical Fitness Corner
Morning Time Exercises
Grip and Wrist Strength
Home Arm Exercises
Home Shoulder Workout
Eat Right
DPD Family,
We wanted to remind you that there are healthy, affordable, and convenient meals that are prepared and delivered to your work location to assist you in your nutritional and physical wellness.
Healthy cooked, prepared, and portioned meals for around $8 a meal, delivered to your station, ready for you to heat and eat.
Use promo code DPD10 for 10% off and put which station you want it delivered to in the special instruction comments.
Meals are delivered on Sundays.
Highlighted Mental Health Professional Tempa Sherrill of The Brave Fight
1. What initially drew you to specialize in counseling for first responders, and what fuels your passion for supporting this community?
I am the spouse of a Marine Corps and Army veteran who served in Afghanistan during 2008-2009 performing tactical psychological operations. At the time of his deployment, my husband, AJ had served 18 years as a police officer. When he returned home after being away for a total of 15 months, we knew something was wrong. This was not the husband and father that we sent overseas. Someone else came home.
He only had two weeks of leave before returning to patrol, and it took six months for the family to convince him to go to the VA for help. He was fortunate to be assigned a psychiatrist who genuinely cared for his welfare and put him on medication to help relieve his symptoms. Group counseling was offered, but his anxiety was so overwhelming that he could not do groups.
Many issues were experienced by the family in this battle, including rage, emotional detachment, memory loss, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Our lives changed drastically. After a year-long wait, the VA was able to get AJ into individual therapy. We also tried several community family counselors who were unable to understand the uniqueness of the needs of law enforcement or the military culture. Finding help felt hopeless at times. Our children and I had no idea how to deal with this new reality and the loss of the husband and father we once knew. Through my own individual counseling and struggle, I felt a call to action. I left an 18-year teaching career to pursue a master’s in counseling and psychology with the passion to help veterans, first responders, and families.
Three years into this process, my husband’s career as a police officer ended when his employer learned he had a posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis after going to them for help with a temporary reassignment request. He was “let go” after 22 years of service. This was a huge setback for my husband and our family, and there were moments when I feared I would lose him completely. He was in a dark place. I was angry his career was ripped away from him and more determined than ever to continue this new mission. While still a student, I was hired at a local non-profit where I spearheaded the development of a veteran focused mental health program all while maintaining my long term goal to include first responders.
After several years of therapy, family healing, and a new career for AJ, he chose to donate a large portion of his police retirement funds as seed money when I launched a mental health non-profit. This was the realization of my dream to exclusively serve veterans, first responders, and their families in a safe, culturally competent environment using trauma-informed, evidence-based therapies. In addition to a decade of nonprofit work, in 2021, I joined the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute working on a systemic level to progress the work of mental health strategies for veterans and first responders. In 2022, I founded The Brave Fight, LLC, a trauma- and grief-informed therapy practice where all people ages 5 and up can get the help they need for trauma and loss, and many other mental health challenges. We have extensive experience with first responders, veterans, and families.
As a former paramedic, and the spouse of a veteran and police officer, I understand first-hand the difficulties public servants experience and the invisible wounds that so often are ignored due to the stigma around asking for help. I am painfully aware of the trauma that the family members endure, and the importance of inclusion in the process as a crucial element in healing for the family. I believe that those who risk their lives for others are owed our service in order to help them heal as individuals and families.
2. Could you share some insight into the unique challenges faced by first responders regarding mental health, and how your approach differs in addressing these challenges compared to other populations?
In my experience, first responders are among the most guarded clients we encounter, largely due to the nature of their training and work, which fundamentally changes them over time. I've observed this both as a spouse and a therapist. Compartmentalization is essential for them to go from call to call while maintaining focus, protocol, safety, and awareness. However, this coping mechanism can become extreme, affecting their communication, emotions, and ultimately, their intimate relationships with loved ones. They strive to shield their loved ones from the often harsh realities of their work, where they frequently engage with people on their worst days and witness events that can't be unseen or unheard. To keep functioning, they continually suppress these experiences, pretending they don't exist. Eventually, this can lead to self-medication, anger, a lack of empathy, and disconnection. For these reasons, it is vital to learn the necessary tools to overcome the challenges faced by first responders.
3. What modalities or therapeutic approaches do you find most effective when working with first responders who have experienced trauma, and why do you believe these methods are particularly suited to this population?
I believe there are many paths to healing, and there is no “one size fits all” solution. Understanding the interconnectedness of the brain, body, and nervous system, and how adverse experiences and trauma impact their functioning, is crucial. By learning tools to create the conditions for thriving and healing, we can regulate our systems once we understand how they work.
I've had the privilege of witnessing many first responders find their unique recipe for unlocking what has kept them stuck. Well-researched, evidence-based therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Narrative Therapy are effective treatments. My modality of choice is EMDR, as it has been a powerful tool for many of my clients. EMDR works well with first responders because it offers a structured approach and a more tactical feel than traditional talk therapy. It provides a sense of control over the process, as it is their brain doing the work.
A very basic explanation is that sometimes our brains store traumatic memories in a maladaptive way. The memory is stored together with the physical or emotional state we are in at the time. EMDR will prompt the brain to heal itself by separating the memory from the physical/emotional state and restore it in a healthy way. At The Brave Fight, we also know that each person is unique in the way they experience the world. There is no one modality to heal every person in every situation. We meet the first responder where they are, get to know them, and choose from several paths for the one the first responders finds healing.
Other important approaches to integrate include body movement or exercise, nutrition, mindfulness, and learning to be fully present and connected to loved ones.
4. In your experience, what are some common misconceptions or stigmas surrounding mental health within the first responder community, and how do you work to overcome these barriers in your practice?
The stigma of being perceived as weak or broken is pervasive in the first responder community, fostering an unrealistic belief that they should be immune to the normal human responses we are all born with. This misconception leads to judgment from the community, fellow officers, and departments when a first responder stumbles or seeks help, often questioning their judgment or ability to continue their work. To some degree, posttraumatic stress symptoms are almost inevitable for first responders, beginning to accumulate in the first year of their careers. Unlike many civilian experiences, first responders are repeatedly exposed to physically and emotionally traumatic events year after year. These symptoms may seem like the norm then years later you may wake up and the dam breaks.
At The Brave Fight, we recognize that these factors are unique to first responders and develop plans specifically tailored to address them. We ensure your privacy is protected throughout the entire counseling process, and we teach you strategies and techniques to maintain your health and resilience throughout your career.
5. Can you provide examples of specific techniques or interventions you often incorporate into your sessions to promote resilience and well-being among first responders?
Self-regulation techniques for the brain and body including breathing, awareness of what is happening in the body, how that connects to feelings, and thoughts, as well as relaxation and calming the body. It is also important to learn how to recognize trauma or grief reminders and unhelpful thoughts, how to acknowledge and name feelings or emotions and regulate them in a healthy way. I encourage mindful activities where we disconnect from the job and the outside noise, completely unplug, whether it is fishing, being in nature, running, playing with your kids, and the list goes on. It is important to create routines and rituals to transition from the work role to your role as spouse, partner, friend, mom or dad. Learning the transition is huge!
6. Could you provide some basic details about your practice, such as the services you offer and how members of the police department can reach out to you for support?
We serve people of all ages from all walks of life, belief systems, lifestyles, ethnicities, and socio-economic backgrounds. We are an accepting, nonjudgmental practice. Our staff has extensive experience in occupational, relational, and family trauma and grief as well as suicide intervention and complex grief in suicide survivors. We leverage this experience on behalf of our clients who may be struggling with domestic abuse, life transition challenges, or occupational traumas such as first responders, veterans, or frontline medical workers.
● We are a one stop shop for the entire family by serving children ages 5 and up, adolescents, and adults. We offer support groups, education, individual therapy, couples, and family therapy.
● We will get to know you and match you with the best fit for your needs.
● We offer evening and weekend appointments to accommodate busy schedules.
● We accept most insurances.
● We offer telehealth appointments statewide in Texas.
● Two locations in Fort Worth and Cleburne.
● Call or text 817-381-6991.
● Email info@thebravefight.com
● Website: www.thebravefight.com
Benefits of Journaling
Whether you’re dealing with stress from school, burnout from work, an illness, or anxiety, journaling can help in many ways:
It can reduce your anxiety. Journaling about your feelings is linked to decreased mental distress. In a study, researchers found that those with various medical conditions and anxiety who wrote online for 15 minutes three days a week over a 12-week period had increased feelings of well-being and fewer depressive symptoms after one month. Their mental well-being continued to improve during the 12 weeks of journaling.
It helps with brooding. Writing about an emotional event can help you break away from the nonstop cycle of obsessively thinking and brooding over what happened — but the timing matters. Some studies show that writing about a traumatic event immediately after it happens may actually make you feel worse.
It creates awareness. Writing down your feelings about a difficult situation can help you understand it better. The act of putting an experience into words and structure allows you to form new perceptions about events.
It regulates emotions. Brain scans of people who wrote about their feelings showed that they were able to control their emotions better than those who wrote about a neutral experience. This study also found that writing about feelings in an abstract way was more calming than writing vividly.
It encourages opening up. Writing privately about a stressful event could encourage some to reach out for social support. This can help with emotional healing.
It can speed up physical healing. Journaling may also have an impact on physical health. A study on 49 adults in New Zealand found that those who wrote for 20 minutes about their feelings on upsetting events healed faster after a biopsy than those who wrote about daily activities. Similarly, college students who wrote about stressful events were less likely to get sick compared to those who wrote about neutral topics like their room.
Women with breast cancer who wrote positively or expressively about their experience with the disease had fewer physical symptoms and fewer cancer-related medical appointments. But researchers also noted that writing about negative emotions may increase anxiety and depression levels.
How to Start Journaling
Try it on paper first. Writing with pen and paper helps you process your feelings better. It’s also easier to add drawings to paper. But go with whatever you’re more comfortable with and is more convenient for you.
Make it a habit. Pick a time of the day that’s good for you. It could be the first thing you do when you wake up or the last thing you do before going to sleep.
Keep it simple. When you’re first starting out, keep it simple. Journal only for a few minutes and set a timer.
Do what feels right. There’s no hard-and-fast rule on what you should write. It’s your space to create whatever you want to express your feelings. Don’t worry about spelling or sentence structure or what other people might think. Some people may prefer to write only if something is bothering them, but you should do what feels right for you.
Write on anything. While a beautiful notebook might inspire some, it can intimidate others. But it doesn’t matter what you write on. It could be a specific journal, random scraps of paper, or your phone. If you don’t feel like writing, you could even try a voice memo.
Get creative. You might not be sure where to start with journaling or you might be reluctant if you’re not fond of writing. But journaling doesn’t have to be just about writing sentences. Try different formats. Write lists, make poetry, compose a song, write a letter, draw some art, or try bullet journaling. You can also find journaling prompts online that might inspire you.
Try expressive writing. Writing about an event that was stressful or emotional for you may be more beneficial to your mental health than just diary writing.
Start a gratitude journal. Giving thanks is good for your mental health. Start off by listing three things that you’re grateful for. These can be small things like a walk in the park, a delicious cup of coffee, or good weather. You can make a list or write full sentences. Details may help you relive the positive moments of your day. How did the sunshine feel on your face? What feelings did the smell of coffee bring?
Don’t set your expectations too high. A journal isn’t going to solve all your problems. It isn’t a therapist or counselor. But it can help you learn more about yourself.
💙💙💙 New Resource Alert 💙💙💙
XR HEALTH VR THERAPY
The Dallas Police Department is happy to announce a partnership with XR Health for the use of VR Goggle Therapy.
We have two "Quiet Room" locations at headquarters as an introduction to VR therapies and decompression.
XR Health also has multiple levels that are available to employees that include:
- Mental Health
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
Sign up with XR Health and provide Texas Blue Cross Blue Shield information.
Copay price will vary depending on your healthcare plan.
- Intake and Assessment
- Unlimited use of XR Health applications
- Tracking and Progress of Modality Goals
Please contact a member of the Dallas PD Wellness Team at DPDWELLNESS@DALLASPOLICE.GOV if you are interested.
Peer Support Opportunity
If you are interested in becoming a Peer Support Member, or know someone that would be interested in joining, please contact Sasha Kim at Sasha.Kim@Dallaspolice.gov.
There is no greater reward than being there to help a peer, watch them grow and know that you were a source of assistance in their time of need.
Contact Sasha or click the image below.
Dr. Joe Dispenza: Accessing the Internal Healing
Doherty Nutrition (Insurance accepted)
Psych-Ed
Click image to
schedule a session
Fight Club In-Person First Responder AA
Click image for
Warrior Recovery
Online AA Sign-Up
Financial Wellness
Sign-Up at your patrol station
For HQ Sign-Up:
contact Sgt Figueroa
by clicking image
Acuity TMS of Plano
Acuity TMS in Plano which is a natural, insurance covered treatment for Depression, Anxiety and PTSD.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a proven alternative to therapy, medications, and it is a non-invasive FDA approved treatment for depression.
TMS treatment is covered by insurance. ALL out-of-pocket deductible costs for DPD personnel will be paid by a generous, unnamed, Dallas Cowboy who has successfully gone through this treatment himself.
If you are a veteran, Acuity TMS of Plano also has a study they would like to you participate in where they will generously pay YOU $400/week to participate!
REQUIREMENTS LISTED BELOW:
- Clinician / Psychologist referral
- Clinical diagnosis of depression, anxiety, PTSD
- Prescribed 2 anti-depressants.
- Participated in therapy or counseling in the past or open to participating for treatment.
- Covered by Insurance, including Tri Care or Medicare
HOW IT WORKS
What is TMS? How does TMS work?
How does Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation work?
COMMON EXPERIENCES
TMS Therapy Testimonials from Depression to Remission
RESULTS
98% reduction in depression in patients
79% full remission of depression
56% have been able to discontinue antidepressants.
WARRIOR RESET
Trauma-informed Yoga & iRest Meditation | 2nd Saturday monthly @ 10:30am
Yoga with Horses | 3rd Sunday monthly @ 3pm
Did you know… Yoga is an ancient practice that incorporates gentle exercise, breath control and meditation.
Some of the benefits of yoga are:
· Lowering blood pressure
· Improving posture and circulation
· Enhancing sense of wellbeing
· Increasing flexibility and range of motion
· Building strength and balance
· Supporting joint health and easing back pain
· Teaching better breathing and fostering mental calmness
· Reducing stress and promoting relaxation
SIGN UP BY CLICKING IMAGE
Getting into the Gym💪
DISCOUNTED GYM MEMBERSHIPS THROUGH BLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD
WELL ON TARGET
877-806-9380
Contact the number above and have your insurance information ready.
Let them know that you are a city of Dallas employee to receive the discounts to the gym memberships.
Once signed up City employees will get a discounted rate to use these locations.
Click the button below to go to Blue365deal.com to check eligibility and what locations are near you. Member rates are $25 a month.
Recognition for Commitment to Fitness achievement
Officer M. Espinoza receiving Certificate of Completion, memo from Assistant Chief Teena Schulz, and Fitness Bar.
RESOURCES
MILITARY LIAISON
Any military related issues or assistance needed should be sent to daniel.camacho@dallaspolice.gov
CHECK IN: VETERAN WELLNESS ALLIANCE
A Soldier's Story of Falling into a PTSD Hole
POLICE CHAPLAINS
For information contact SC Jon Lumbley
Employee Relations Team @ 214-671-4448
Blue Cross Blue Shield Resources
Confidential Online Programs
Digital programs from Learn to Live** teach you skills to better cope with mental health concerns. Find out if a stress/anxiety, depression, insomnia or substance use program might be a good fit for you or your family. Visit learntolive.com/welcome/BCBSTX. Enter the code BETTERME. From there, you can access the resources at any time and work with a coach for extra support.
Help for Life’s Challenges
You and members of your household can use your Employee Assistance Program for help with life events. Compsych’s GuidanceResources includes:
· In-person, video or phone counseling
· Financial planning
· Legal consultation
· And more
Call 1-844-213-8968, or visit guidanceresources.com and use WebID BCBSTXEAP.
CITY INSURANCE ACCEPTED COUNSELORS
CHILDREN AND FAMILY COUNSELING
Since the Wellness Unit's inception, we have seen consistent feedback from our employees who care for their children and family as an area we all must do better in. Our children are our future and legacies. We have seen that children from first responders endure secondary trauma more than most families.
Please take the time to educate your child on life’s stressors and how to recognize sadness, depressed moods and trauma they may be exposed to. These videos could shed some light on these topics for your kids and provide them perspectives and tools they may use to thrive.
NAMI NORTH TEXAS
A.T.O. CONFIDENTIAL COUNSELORS
COPLINE
WATERMARK COMMUNITY CHURCH
Brotherhood for the Fallen
The Brotherhood's mission is two-fold, immediate financial assistance and immediate emotional support by sending 2 uniformed Dallas Police Officers to the funerals of officers killed by felonious act across the nation. Brotherhood for the Fallan- Dallas will organize and pay for officer's travel arrangements. We will also, hand you a check to deliver to the family of the fallen officer. Our Department will grant the officer special assignment in order to attend the funeral in full Class A uniform.
Our Chapter consist of all Dallas Police Officers, we are always needing new travelers and dedicated officers in good standing to represent our Chapter, Department and City. Please look for the following individual's to join or join by clinking the link below.
TEXAS LAW ENFORCEMENT PEER NETWORK
The Texas Law Enforcement Peer Network (TLEPN) is a state-wide program designed to give every Texas law enforcement officer access to specially trained peers to address stressors, trauma, fatigue and other needs to combat workforce burnout and end Police suicide and self-harm. The network will train and mentor police officer volunteers to assist their fellow officers manage stressors both on and off the job.
TLEPN VISION & MISSION
Vision: Our vision is to build and maintain the best state-wide Peer Network possible, and to give continuous support to the police officers in the field.
Mission: Our Mission is to eliminate police suicide in the state of Texas, because even one is too many.
TLEPN LONESTAR READINESS APP
- Simple to use: download the App, get access code from MyTCOLE, select a peer from the list, and reach out for help or contact the network by phone at (972) 336-1314 or by email at TLEPN@untdallas.edu
- Completely anonymous: The user information is not saved or shared. You do not even have to use your real contact info when reaching out for help.
- Cops helping Cops: The peers available are all volunteers and are trained by TCOLE standards to help when it is needed the most.
CONTACTS
Website: untdallas.edu/cpi/tlepn
email: TLEPN@untdallas.edu
Phone: (972)-338-1314
Social Media:
[1] A “Law enforcement officer" means a person identified as a peace officer under Article 2.12(1), (2), (3), or
(4), Code of Criminal Procedure.
NATIONAL SUICIDE HOTLINE
WELLNESS CONTACTS
MENTAL HEALTH LEAVE FORMS
Please use the email below to send the Mental Health Leave forms to HR to be reviewed.
There are two forms:
- Green form to be filled out by Mental Health Professionsl.
- Blue form to be filled out by the requesting employee.
CODEmployeePaidLeave@dallas.gov
Questions or issues? Please contact the Wellness Unit: DPDWELLNESS@DALLASPOLICE.GOV