JACKSONVILLE. Fla. (WFLA) — The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office posted a viral body camera video on Wednesday, which showed an officer in a tense situation who advocated for a man with five simple words: “You can get through it.”
JSO shared a reminder for those struggling with mental health about free and available resources, saying the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988.
The body camera video shows a man on top of the Dames Point Bridge in Jacksonville who was “ready to take his own life” before officers stepped in with compassion and guidance, JSO said.
Officer Antonio Richardson asked to pray with the man and reached out his hand, saying “whatever you’re going through, you can get through it,” according to the video.
“In that moment, our officers weren’t the police,” the sheriff’s office said. “They were just people showing how much they care for another person.”
The man took Richardson’s hand and stepped off of the bridge and into the officer’s embrace.
“We are here for you,” JSO said. “We care about you. We do what we do every day because we care about you.”
There are multiple resources available in the Tampa area, offering services to ensure no one has to face a crisis alone.
Crisis Center of Tampa Bay
The Crisis Center offers help for those struggling with sexual assault or abuse, domestic violence, financial distress, suicidal thoughts and more. The Crisis Center is available through calling 211.
Tampa Bay Thrives
Tampa Bay Thrives says it strengthens behavioral health outcomes for depression, anxiety and substance use disorder.
The Tampa Bay Thrives “Let’s Talk” support line provides free and confidential mental health support at 844-YOU-OKAY or 844-968-6529.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
SAMHSA is a confidential and free information service in English and Spanish for those facing mental or substance use disorders. SAMHSA’s national helpline can be reached at 800-662-HELP or 800-662-4357.
Agency for Community Treatment Services
ACTS said it offers individualized care to meet the need of veterans, families, youth and more. ACTS serves individuals in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk and Broward counties.