Senator Marshall Hosts Roundtable Focused on Law Enforcement Officers’ Mental Health
Wichita – On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) hosted a roundtable in Wichita with law enforcement officers, first responders, and mental health professionals to explore ways all agencies can work together to address the mental health needs of all first responders. The conversation centered around what is already being done and what more we can do to help our law enforcement officers, first responders, and support staff turn their stress into growth. Senator Marshall issued the following statement post-event:
“As the son of a police chief, I know firsthand that without the unwavering courage of our law enforcement officers upholding law and order, our communities falter, education suffers, and prosperity fades. I also know that it is a very stressful job and takes a toll on their mental health, said Senator Marshall. “Today’s roundtable was an opportunity for us to work with our officers and mental health professionals to find ways to transform their stress into growth opportunities and better understand how we can best support those who protect and serve our Kansas communities.”
“Officers and Veterans are our nations heroes and warriors and they deserve our support,” said McPherson Police Chief Mikel Golden. “We have an obligation to thank and care for their wellbeing because when the wolves come, and they will, you need a SheepDog to show up to serve and protect. The average person witnesses 6-8 traumatic events in their lives while officers witness up to 600 in their career. Yes, there is PTSD but you can get better and that’s by learning and utilizing Post Traumatic Growth.”
“It was energizing to be in the room with people who are willing to care for the dedicated men and women who serve the citizens of the State of Kansas,” said Allen County Sheriff Anthony Maness. “I appreciate the invitation to be a part of this important conversation.”
“Thank you to Senator Marshall and his staff for bringing together a group of individuals with different backgrounds and points of view to discuss the challenges we face in providing better resources for the mental health of our first responders,” said Pottawatomie County Sheriff Doug Adams. “Law enforcement officers, dispatchers, jailers, EMS and Firefighters all face unimaginable stress during their shifts, and it’s critical we provide them with the support and resources they need, not just to do their jobs, but to stay healthy while doing them. This conversation is a step toward ensuring no first responder is left without help.”
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Contact: Payton Fuller
