The Foundation

It is estimated that law enforcement officers are 54% more likely to die by suicide than the American population in general. Law enforcement officers report much higher rates of depression, PTSD, burnout, and other anxiety related mental health conditions. Yet, an estimated 62% of police agencies do not provide wellness services and less than 5% have suicide prevention programs- despite the known adverse effects of occupational and organizational stressors in policing.

Those officers who overcome the stigma to seek care are often confronted by the lack of accessible, culturally competent mental health providers. And although general practitioners are the most common providers sought out for intervention, many medical providers are unaware of the increased risk of suicide among law enforcement officers.

Recognition of the psychological toll of policing within the law enforcement community has fostered increased governmental funding, programs, and resources to improve law enforcement health and wellness.  However, tremendous disparity still exists in utilization of health resources and health outcomes.

The Howard C. Liebengood Foundation (HCLF) seeks to close this gap.