An Edmonton police officer who has publicly shared his struggles with mental health has been featured in a Canadian book that aims to share stories about people who overcame the odds and persevered.

Sgt. Michael Elliott, the president of the Edmonton Police Association, said he was chosen to be a voice in “Silver Linings: Stories of Gratitude, Resiliency, and Growth Through Adversity” by its author Janice Landry after she noticed him sharing his story on social media.

The book was published on Oct. 21 by Pottersfield Press, and the chapter that features Elliott gave him the opportunity to share his experience.

Elliott said his personal mental health struggles came to a head, dealing with his father’s cancer diagnosis and responding as an officer to several stressful events, including a suicide, during the same period.

Elliott said he was referred to the Edmonton Police Service’s Employee & Family Assistance Program, which connected him with a counsellor and started his road to recovery.

But he continues to share his story on social media — and in the book — in hopes that it can inspire others to ask for help.

Guest: Sergeant Mike Elliott - Edmonton Police Officer & President of the Edmonton Police Association

Guest: Dr. John Ogrodniczuk -  Professor and Director of the Psychotherapy Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia & Founder/Director of the Mental Health Resource Heads Up Guys

Guest: Gord Steinke - Global News Edmonton Anchor

Pamela Renwick, Director of operations and communications for Elections Alberta in conversation with J'Lyn Nye. 

Ward 11 Edmonton City Councillor Mike Nickel joins J'Lyn Nye in studio.