Police Suicide: An Epidemic of Tragic Loss

Suicide claims the lives of more police officers than violence in the line of duty. The police suicide rate is three times that of the general public. In August 2019 two officers in New York died by suicide a day apart – adding to a toll of 122 that year, the highest toll in the nation in four years. In this show Dr. John Violanti, psychologist, retired 23-year police veteran and now academic researcher brings us up close to the multiple and complex causes of police suicide. Drawing upon the second edition of his important book, Police Suicide: A Blue Epidemic, Dr. Violanti will consider the scope of the problem and the complex interaction of personal, professional, cultural and organizational factors that increase the potential for suicide. He will also discuss organizational recognition of the problem, training and suicide prevention programs. This epidemic impacts everyone.