EAST LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – In a world where a law enforcement badge often comes with heavy burdens, the East Lansing Police Department is taking a refreshing and innovative step toward wellness. Gone are the days when stress was just something to bear in silence – now, officers, retirees, and their families are embracing a brighter, healthier future with two unlikely heroes: a cutting-edge wellness app called Cordico and a charming therapy dog named Silas.
A digital lifeline.
Cordico, the department’s new confidential wellness app is a digital tool that offers a smorgasbord of mental health resources, from physical health tips and sleep advice to guidance on managing stress and anxiety. The app also allows users to seek help anonymously. This means that while the department can track overall usage trends, individual identities remain protected – a vital feature for those who need a discreet hand during challenging times. The app is available to current and former employees as well as their families.
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Interim Police Chief Jennifer Brown told WILX, “Statistically, sworn officers face higher rates of substance abuse, divorce, and even suicide.” She added, “We want to do things preventatively and make sure that we are taking care of all of our personnel. So this is just one way that we can help our individuals ahead of any of those things to come up.”
Four-legged friend to the rescue: Silas.
But the Cordico app is not the only thing available to help East Lansing law enforcement. The department is also unleashing Silas, a 7-month-old white and brown Goldendoodle therapy dog with a mission to boost morale. With his wagging tail and gentle demeanor, Silas is more than just a canine companion; he’s a living, breathing reminder that sometimes the best medicine comes in a furry package. Whether it’s a tough day on the beat or a stressful moment in the station, Silas is on call to offer comfort, laughter, and a much-needed break from the rigors of law enforcement.
Silas is cared for and trained by Hannah Peterson, a social worker with the East Lansing Police Department. Originally selected by the department and trained by Canines for Change, he will be providing comfort to officers and city hall staff. Additionally, Silas, who is set to undergo testing in July to become a certified facility dog, will accompany Peterson to community events.
A blueprint for wellness.
The combination of a high-tech app and a heartwarming therapy dog is not just a feel-good story – it’s a forward-thinking strategy to help a law enforcement agency better deal with stress and mental health issues. By addressing mental health proactively and being supportive of officers and their families, the entire community stands to benefit.
