The Hartselle Police Department has hired a counselor to meet with officers individually every few months to monitor and support their mental wellness.
Police Chief Alan McDearmond said officers have responded positively to the program, noting its immediate benefits.
“It gives officers a chance to talk confidentially about struggles at home or work and be referred to resources that can help,” McDearmond said.
Ensuring the mental and physical well-being of officers is a top priority, he added, citing the high rates of alcoholism and suicide associated with law enforcement’s exposure to traumatic and high-stress situations.
“People usually call us on their worst day with problems built up over years. Officers want to help, but they can’t always solve every situation they respond to,” McDearmond said.
The need for mental health support is often amplified by traumatic incidents. McDearmond cited a recent police chase that ended with the death of 17-year-old Tristan Hollis as an example. “That wreck affected several officers emotionally. It was a very intense scene,” he said.
Sgt. Brent Steele said officers often process these events only after their shift ends. “You get the job done and move on. It’s usually at home, with family, that the impact hits,” he explained.
Officer Trey White, who has served 12 years in law enforcement, said the counseling program is a first in his career. “This is the only department I’ve worked for that prioritizes officers’ mental health, and that means a lot. Our job exposes us to extreme situations daily, from life-saving emergencies to violent confrontations. It’s mentally exhausting,” White said.
McDearmond emphasized the link between emotional well-being and job performance. “When officers are mentally ready, they perform better on the job,” he said.
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