In a world where mental health often takes a backseat, Ozaukee County Sheriff's Office is shattering norms and leading by example. Commemorating World Mental Health Day, the Ozaukee County Sheriff's Office put forth a strong message, "Everyone experiences mental health issues. No one is immune to it. It's ok to not be ok. Let's keep the conversation going and help each other out." This isn't just talk; their actions speak volumes.
Ozaukee County isn't just looking outward but also inward, ensuring its employees' mental well-being is taken seriously. The creation of the Crisis Response Unit serves as a testament to their commitment. It's designed to swiftly and compassionately respond to various needs, from mental health crises to substance abuse, proving they're willing to immediately address, not shy away from, the complexities of mental health. Their efforts are a part of a concerted attempt to boldly break down the lingering stigma associated with mental health, as reported by the Ozaukee County Sheriff's Office Facebook page.
The CRU isn't a solo act. It's the result of a collaboration between the Ozaukee County Sheriff's Office, the County Department of Human Services, and Mequon Police Department. Resources such as the County Critical Incident Debrief team and the County Peer Support team are other pieces of this holistic puzzle, aiming to support and sustain the mental health of the department's workforce. Moreover, programs like Crisis Intervention Training (CIT and CIP) and annual employee wellness training are ingrained into the department's culture, reinforcing the message that it's more than acceptable to seek help when needed.
