Beyond the badge: Understanding the mental health challenges faced by police officers
Despite the high levels of stress and trauma, discussing mental health with their supervisors, families, or healthcare professionals remains a stigma within the public safety industry. Officers often fear that admitting to mental health struggles could be perceived as a sign of weakness or negatively impact their careers. This stigma frequently prevents officers, and others suffering from mental health issues, from seeking the help they need.
Given the unique challenges faced by police officers, it's crucial to have effective tools to identify and support their mental health needs so that they can maintain fitness for duty.