Supporting Officer Mental Health and Wellness

It’s no secret that police officers often face high-pressure situations that can lead to stress, anxiety and mental health issues. Officers encounter incidents involving murder, kidnappings, fatal car accidents and many other tragic events.  This repeated exposure to trauma situations can take its toll. 

Recently, 3 active deputies and one retired member of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department died by suicide all in less than 24 hours.   

As unfortunate and shocking as the news is, the reality of suicide among law enforcement professionals is not unique to the LA County Sheriff’s Department. Across the nation, those who serve and protect our communities are struggling.  

In a survey of over 400 police officers, the National Institute of Health reported that 12% of respondents indicated they had a lifetime mental health diagnosis. 26% percent of the officers reported current symptoms of mental illness. Of the participants who reported mental health issues, only 17% had sought out mental health services.  

Whether formally diagnosed or otherwise, many are dealing with this mental health crisis. Officers need access to resources and professional services, and agencies must create an environment that supports their team’s health and wellness.  

Challenges of Receiving Mental Health Support and Services 

The challenges officers face in seeking and receiving mental health support and services are complex and multifaceted, deeply rooted in both the culture of law enforcement and broader societal attitudes toward mental health.  

One of the primary obstacles is the stigma associated with mental health issues within the law enforcement community. This stigma often manifests as a perception of mental health struggles as a sign of weakness, undermining the resilient image of police officers.  

As a result, many officers may feel reluctant to seek help for fear of being perceived as unfit for duty or unable to handle the stresses of their job. This fear of judgment, both from peers and superiors, can be a significant barrier to accessing mental health services. 

Another challenge is the lack of awareness and understanding of mental health issues among officers themselves. Without adequate training and education on the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions, officers may not recognize their need for support or may misinterpret their symptoms as merely occupational stress.  

This lack of recognition can delay or prevent the seeking of necessary help. Additionally, there may be a limited understanding of the availability and scope of mental health resources, leaving officers uncertain about where to turn for assistance. 

Confidentiality concerns also play a role in the reluctance to seek help. Officers may worry that disclosing their mental health issues could negatively impact their career, particularly if they fear that this information could be used against them in evaluations or advancement opportunities. The concern about confidentiality breaches can dissuade officers from utilizing department-provided mental health resources – leading them to suffer in silence rather than risk their professional reputation. 

Moreover, the demanding nature of law enforcement work itself can make accessing mental health services challenging. Long and irregular hours, along with the high-stress environment, can leave little time or energy for officers to seek help.  

Even when services are available, scheduling conflicts and the 24/7 demands of police work can make it difficult to attend appointments or participate in ongoing treatment. 

Supporting Officer Wellness Through Legislation 

The Public Safety Officer Support Act represents a significant development in the approach towards officer health and wellness. This legislation acknowledges and addresses the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by law enforcement and other first responders. It signifies a cultural shift in recognizing the psychological toll of their duties, which often include exposure to traumatic events. 

One of the key aspects of the Act is its expansion of benefits. Traditionally, benefits for officers were primarily focused on physical injuries sustained in the line of duty.  

However, this Act extends these benefits to include psychological trauma, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and acute stress disorder. This change is crucial as it acknowledges that not all wounds are visible and that mental health is as important as physical health in these demanding professions. 

Additionally, the Act addresses the issue of suicide among public safety officers. By recognizing suicide as a line-of-duty death when it is a result of PTSD or acute stress disorder sustained in the line of duty, the legislation brings much-needed attention to this often-stigmatized subject.  

This acknowledgment not only provides financial support to the families of officers who have died by suicide but also helps break the stigma surrounding mental health issues within these professions. 

Another significant component is the focus on prevention and early intervention. The Act encourages the implementation of training programs for officers to recognize and manage stress, trauma and mental health issues. These programs aim to create an environment where seeking help for mental health concerns is encouraged and supported. 

Prioritizing Officer Mental Health Drives Retention 

Prioritizing and providing mental health services for your officers can directly improve retention, addressing a critical challenge faced by many police departments and public safety organizations. The demanding nature of law enforcement work can have a substantial impact on an officer’s mental and emotional well-being.  

This toll often leads to burnout, dissatisfaction and ultimately, a decision to leave the profession. By offering mental health services, departments not only support the well-being of their officers but also create a more sustainable and stable workforce. 

The provision of mental health services demonstrates your organization’s commitment to your team’s overall well-being. When officers feel that their mental health is a priority, their sense of value and loyalty to the department increases. This feeling of being valued and supported can significantly enhance job satisfaction and morale, factors that are intrinsically linked to an officer’s decision to remain in their role.  

In the tragic story of the LA County Sheriff’s Department, it was discussed that their department had already been experiencing low morale and severe staffing shortages. 

In environments where mental health is openly addressed and supported, officers are more likely to feel a strong connection to their department and their colleagues, fostering a sense of community and belonging that is crucial for retention. 

Mental health services play a critical role in preventing burnout and mitigating the effects of stress and trauma. Officers who have access to counseling, therapy and other mental health resources are better equipped to manage the psychological demands of their work.  

This management of mental health challenges not only helps maintain an officer’s current well-being but also safeguards their long-term career viability. When officers can cope effectively with the stressors of their job, they are less likely to experience the overwhelming burnout that leads many to leave the profession. 

The proactive approach to mental health can lead to a decrease in absenteeism and a reduction in the use of sick leave for mental health reasons. Officers who have access to mental health resources are more likely to seek help early, preventing more serious mental health issues that could lead to extended periods of absence. This continuity and consistency in the workforce not only benefits the department in terms of reduced turnover but also contributes to a more experienced and skilled pool of officers. 

CentralSquare Supports Officer Mental Health and Wellness 

Supporting the mental health and wellness of officers is not just a matter of individual well-being but a critical aspect of public safety and community trust. By acknowledging and addressing the mental health challenges faced by officers, agencies can create a more supportive environment.  

This shift can lead to healthier, more resilient officers who are better equipped and supported to serve their communities. The journey to changing the culture around mental health in law enforcement is ongoing, but it’s a path that must be pursued with commitment and empathy. 

CentralSquare is dedicated to the advocacy and support to prioritize the mental health of officers and first responders. Check out our resources for mental health and wellness to learn more about CentralSquare’s efforts, as well as resources for your agency.