To Serve and Protect the Mental Cost of Policing

Abstract

Police officers are exposed to high-stress levels with consistently high ever-evolving demands. In addition to the orders and stress, there is also the exposure to unpredictable danger and physical challenges. However, it was frequently overlooked what impact such work had on a frontline officer's mental health. In recent years there has been a shift to focus on such impacts as the number of officers who committed suicide continued to grow, and the number of officers on leave increased. This paper aims to examine the effect that serving and protecting one's community has on officers’ mental health and its impact on their ability to continue to do their job. Additionally, this paper aims to explore some recommendations for police agencies to adopt to best support active members. More research is ultimately required to determine the impact that Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Operational Stress Injuries, and other mental health concerns can have on policing. As well, more research is necessary to determine the best practices that would be able to assist officers following a traumatic event or ensuring ongoing good mental fitness and support. Finally, the assistance police officers receive for on-the-job mental health injuries; and the requirement for continuous mental health checks should have the benefit of being standardized across the nation.