First Responder Wellness Week (March 23–27, 2026)
Contributing Author: Lorrin Freeman, Wake County (NC) District Attorney & NDAA Wellbeing Committee Chair
Approximately one hundred and eighty-four law enforcement officers die by suicide each year. More officers die by suicide than in the line of duty. While these numbers are staggering, the profession has begun the work needed to stop these sad endings. Increasingly, law enforcement agencies across the country are embracing programs designed to promote the resilience of their officers and to address the very real impact the continual exposure to trauma has on them.
As prosecutors, many of us pride ourselves in being part of the larger public safety community. We work daily alongside the men and women in uniform in our communities. We often think of ourselves as being supporters of law enforcement. But do we do our part to encourage them to take steps to maintain their wellbeing?
Research indicates that creating awareness of how the work impacts first responders and creating a safe space where they feel comfortable sharing go a long way in promoting resilience. Making a connection and taking time to ask someone earnestly how they are doing can have a real impact. We can play a role in making it acceptable to practice selfcare in a profession that is dedicated to serving others.
First Responder Wellness Week 2026 occurs March 23–27. There are multiple ways prosecutors’ offices can join other agencies across the country in supporting the health, safety and resilience of our first responders. Whether it’s hosting a drop in for refreshments at your office or leading a thank you note campaign to your local agencies, find a way to show your support.