More police officers with the Metro Nashville Police Department have been using its resources for counseling and advocacy over the last few years, according to an official.
"More people are absolutely coming now than 3 years ago, 5 years ago or 10 years ago," Behavioral Health Services Assistant Manager David Kennington told NewsChannel 5. " I think there is less stigma. There is a trust and bond that's developed and makes it easier."
Kenngington works for the Police Advocacy Support Services (P.A.S.S.) under the the police department. The unique program provides free and confidential services in a safe environment to police officers and their families.
The goal is to get law enforcement through the physical and emotional toll of the job.
"This job is going to present some challenges and pressures but there are healthy ways to take care of yourself," he said.
The program provides training, health stress management, psychotherapy and trauma support during critical incidents. In addition, employees help educate and create awareness about the pitfalls of being in law enforcement.
"We see depression, we see anxiety but mainly just general stressors. We want to know what's going on at home, what's going on with relationships and what's going on at work," Kennington added.
Counselors with P.A.S.S also respond to scenes to talk with police officers like the morning a domestic incident led to an officer-involved shooting in Antioch on Tuesday.
They have also been there to support police officers who may have lost loved ones including the death of Officer Eric Mumaw this year.
There have been a lot of focus and public scrutiny on law enforcement in the last year including protests sparked by shootings across the country.
"That is an additional stressor that may be wasn't around at a different time," Kennington said.
Typically, there are 75-100 counseling sessions a week. There have been 3,000 counseling sessions in the last two years, according to Kennington.
P.A.S.S also has 60 Metro police officers trained as peer supporters.
To learn more on P.A.S.S., click on this link.
