University professor advises that society not neglect the mental health needs of embattled police officers. | Pixabay/Bruce Emmerling
University professor advises that society not neglect the mental health needs of embattled police officers. | Pixabay/Bruce Emmerling
With all the criticism of law enforcement officers in recent months over killing of suspects in police custody, one Northern Illinois University professor says society should not ignore the mental health needs of officers.
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the public appreciated police officers, psychology professor Michelle Lilly told WREX. But that changed when George Floyd died in police custody in May in Minneapolis, prompting nationwide protests and physical attacks on law enforcement officers.
The change in public opinion can cause anxiety, stress, and depression in officers, Lilly said. It has also caused some officers to resign from their jobs. She is calling for increased focus on improving the mental health of officers.
"Not to think that is the only thing that needs to happen, but we certainly know that it can, in and of itself, go a long way in improving decision making, job performance, and threat detection," Lilly told WREX.
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