John Kelly's Journey: Mental Health in Law Enforcement
I kind of fillet myself open to the good and the bad just to normalize it, to let them know that they're not alone, that somebody can go through the things that I went through and still come out living a fulfilled, beautiful, blessed life.
John Kelly has dedicated his life to serving as a First Responder with the Broward County Sheriff's Office in Florida. But behind the badge lies a story of personal struggle and resilience. In this episode of 'Recovery Is Possible', host Michael Van Meter sits down with John to discuss the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by those in law enforcement. John opens up about his own battles with addiction and the cumulative stress that comes with the job.
He underscores the need for law enforcement agencies to foster environments where seeking help is not only accepted but encouraged. John also shares his initiatives aimed at promoting mental health and wellness among his peers, emphasizing the critical role of personal well-being in preventing addiction, PTSD, and even suicide. This episode sheds light on the human side of law enforcement, offering valuable insights for anyone touched by these issues.