JACKSONVILLE – Law Enforcement Appreciation Day was Thursday, and it was a time to recognize the brave men and women who supported us during our worst days. This recognition comes at a critical moment, as the holiday season often sees a surge in 911 calls, placing more significant emotional strain on law enforcement officers. After the holidays, many first responders grapple with the cumulative stress of responding to crises during one of the year's busiest and most challenging times. 

These pressures contribute to a growing mental health crisis among law enforcement officers. According to Blue H.E.L.P., more than 1,000 officers in the U.S. have died by suicide since 2018, including eight in Florida in 2024. 

In recognition of this day, a leading Florida behavioral health system highlights critical resources available to support these heroes during their most difficult times. LSF Health Systems’ First Responder Peer Support Program serves 20 counties across Northeast and Northern Central Florida, providing first responders and their families access to confidential, no-cost mental health services. Individuals can connect with a trained peer specialist by calling 211 and identifying as a first responder within 24 hours. 

“After one of the busiest and most emotionally challenging times of the year, first responders must have time to decompress and process what they’ve experienced,” said Dr. Christine Cauffield, CEO of LSF Health Systems. “On this special day, we want to honor them properly while reminding them of the services available to support their mental health.” 

While many law enforcement agencies offer internal peer support services, some officers may feel uneasy discussing personal struggles within their department. This program provides a trusted alternative where first responders can seek help without fear of judgment. About 2,000 first responders have called 211 seeking services ranging from basic needs referrals to getting connected to a peer specialist since the program began in 2022. 

“I’ve known deputies and officers who have taken their own lives, and too often I’ve heard the same things afterward: ‘I never knew,’ or ‘If only they had told me they were struggling, I would have helped,’” said Victor Gualillo, chief of Atlantic Beach Police. “Now, they’re no longer with us. We owe it to them to improve things for the next generation.” 

First responders – or their family members – can visit StayFitforDuty.org for more information or call 211 to identify themselves as first responders to be confidentially connected with a peer specialist. 

LSF Health Systems is a behavioral health managing entity contracted by the Florida Department of Children and Families. It oversees behavioral healthcare for people who face poverty and are without insurance. For more information, visit lsfhealthsystems.org.