What is Copline? 

In the world of law enforcement, the weight of the job extends far beyond being on duty. Officers carry the burdens of the job home, often struggling with the effects of trauma, hypervigilance, and emotional exhaustion. Yet, despite being problem-solvers for others, many find it challenging to seek help for themselves. That’s where Copline steps in, a totally confidential, genuinely non-profit, 24/7 peer support line designed exclusively for law enforcement officers, retirees, and their families. 

What is Copline? 

Copline is a listener’s line, not just a crisis hotline. Staffed entirely by retired law enforcement officers who have walked in the same boots, it provides a safe, anonymous space for active and retired officers to talk through their struggles without fear of judgment or retaliation. Whether an officer is feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or just needs to vent during a late-night shift, Copline is there to listen. 

But here’s something many don’t know, Copline isn’t just for officers. Family members, including spouses, parents, and adult children of officers, can also call for support and guidance when they are struggling to understand what their loved one is going through. 

The Power of Peer Support 

One of the biggest barriers to seeking mental health support in law enforcement is the fear of appearing weak or being misunderstood. Copline eliminates that barrier by offering connection through shared experience. When an officer calls Copline, they are speaking to someone who has faced the same challenges, understands the culture, and can validate their emotions without judgment. 

Retired NYPD officer and Copline volunteer Deborah Schwartz explains, “We’re not therapists, we’re peers. We don’t diagnose. We listen. And sometimes, that’s all an officer needs, someone who truly ‘gets it.’” 

Common Reasons Officers and Families Call 

While calls to Copline vary, some common themes emerge: 

• Loneliness and Isolation: A midnight shift, a long drive home, or sitting alone in a patrol car, officers sometimes just need someone to talk to who understands. 

• Job-Related Stress: From administrative pressure to public scrutiny, officers often feel underappreciated and unsupported. 

• Family Struggles: Spouses and family members call to better understand their officer’s emotional withdrawal or the impact of a critical incident. 

• Transitioning to Retirement: Many officers struggle with losing their sense of identity after leaving the job. Copline helps them adjust to life beyond law enforcement. 

• Seeking Resources for Mental Health Support: While Copline does not provide therapy, trained volunteers can offer vetted referrals to culturally competent therapists who specialize in working with law enforcement. 

Confidentiality is Key 

For many officers, the idea of seeking help within their own department is daunting. Concerns about retaliation, stigma, or career consequences often prevent them from reaching out. Copline operates with complete anonymity. No calls are recorded, no names are required, and no statistics are kept. An officer can call, vent, and hang up, no strings attached. 

Deborah recalls an officer who called just to say, “I’m lonely.” That simple admission opened the door to a conversation that made a difference. Catching officers at the ‘lonely’ stage could prevent a more serious crisis down the road. 

How You Can Support Copline 

Copline operates solely on donations and fundraising. Unlike many organizations, Copline does not accept government grants or union funding to maintain its confidentiality and independence. Every dollar raised goes directly toward keeping the hotline running, training retired officer volunteers, and spreading awareness. 

Here’s how you can help: 

• Donate: Even a small contribution helps keep this critical resource available. 

• Spread the Word: Share Copline’s information within your department, community, or family. 

• Volunteer: If you are a retired officer with a heart for helping, consider becoming a trained Copline volunteer. 

• Invite Copline to Your Academy or Department: Early intervention matters. Copline is available to speak to recruits and officers about mental health resources and reducing stigma. 

Save This Number: 1-800-COPLINE (267-5463) 

Whether you’re an officer, a spouse, a parent, or a friend of someone in law enforcement, save this number in your phone. You never know when you or someone you care about might need it. 

The job is tough, but no officer or family member has to navigate it alone. Heroes don’t do it alone. And with resources like Copline, help is just a phone call away. 

For more information, visit Copline.org. 

A Challenge for You

To learn more about improving your relationship, check out my book, Hold the Line: The Essential Guide to Protecting Your Law Enforcement Relationship, available wherever books are sold.