The Antioch Police Oversight Commission held a meeting on December 2, 2024, focusing on the critical issue of mental health support for police officers. The commission discussed the need for a comprehensive policy structure that mandates mental health care as an essential component of police work.

Key recommendations include implementing mandatory mental health check-ins for officers, which would require them to engage in regular, confidential sessions with licensed mental health professionals. The proposed changes aim to provide access to ongoing therapy services, including trauma-informed counseling and stress management resources. Additionally, the commission emphasized the importance of integrating mental health education into officer development programs, highlighting resilience and coping strategies.

The rationale for these recommendations is clear: improved mental wellness among officers leads to better job performance. Mentally healthy officers are more capable of making sound decisions and managing high-stress situations effectively. Regular access to mental health care is expected to reduce burnout and enhance public safety, ultimately fostering a culture that prioritizes mental health within the police department.

The commission also noted that these policy changes would address significant gaps in the current Antioch Police Department policy handbook. By institutionalizing mental health support and community engagement strategies, the handbook will better reflect the evolving needs of the Antioch community and reinforce the department's commitment to equitable and effective public safety practices.

The meeting underscored the importance of treating mental health as a fundamental aspect of officer wellness, aiming to create a healthier and more resilient police workforce.