Mesa Police Department expands wellness program to support officers' mental health

The Mesa City Council held a study session on April 10, 2025, focusing on the city's wellness initiatives, particularly those aimed at supporting the mental and physical health of its police department personnel. Chief Butler presented an overview of the department's commitment to investing in the well-being of its officers, emphasizing the importance of these resources for effective community service.

Chief Butler highlighted the department's wellness initiative, which aligns with the city's broader wellness goals. He noted the historical significance of their peer support program, which has evolved into a comprehensive wellness program designed to build resilience among officers before they encounter trauma. This proactive approach includes a significant expansion of resources, with the addition of more peer team members and chaplains to provide support.

The department has restructured its peer program, increasing its team from one to five chaplains and expanding the peer support team to 57 part-time members. This growth reflects a strong commitment from officers who wish to contribute to the well-being of their colleagues. One notable program introduced is the wellness visit initiative, allowing officers to meet with clinical psychologists for voluntary check-ins. This program aims to normalize mental health discussions and has received positive feedback from participants, many of whom found the experience beneficial.

The session underscored the city's dedication to ensuring that its police force is healthy and well-supported, ultimately enhancing their ability to serve the community effectively. The council's engagement in these discussions indicates a strong commitment to prioritizing the welfare of city employees, particularly those in high-stress roles like law enforcement.