The Silent Struggle: Addressing Mental Health Challenges Among Police Officers

Hello! My name is Madison Bell, and I am a member of API’s Criminal Justice Center. As a criminal justice and sociology major with a law minor, I have studied the challenges law enforcement officers face on and off duty. Coming from a family with retired officers and interning with the Athens-Clarke County Police Department, I have seen how the mental toll of policing—long hours, repeated trauma, and high-pressure decisions—can lead to mental health issues like burnout, PTSD, and even suicide. Despite these challenges, stigma often prevents officers from seeking help. In this blog, I aim to highlight the importance of police mental health, the barriers to support, and the changes needed to prioritize officer well-being. I also take a moment to highlight the work that Athens-Clarke County is doing to support our law enforcement officers and their mental health. 

Law enforcement officers are often perceived as symbols of strength and resilience, tasked with maintaining public safety while addressing challenging circumstances. However, beneath the badge lies a profound and often overlooked issue: the mental health struggles police officers face. Chronic exposure to traumatic events, high-stress situations, and the inherent dangers of the job contribute to a mental health crisis within the law enforcement community that is often overlooked. 

Research shows that police officers are at a heightened risk for various mental health disorders. A comprehensive review highlighted that officers' chronic exposure to direct and secondary trauma increases the risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, substance use, and physiological changes such as elevated cortisol levels and increased cardiovascular reactivity. These findings underscore the urgent need for mental health support within law enforcement agencies.​

Despite the high prevalence of mental health issues, many officers hesitate to seek help due to several barriers. A study identified stigma as one of these significant barriers, with officers fearing that acknowledging mental health issues could be perceived as a sign of weakness or incompetence.​ Officers often also worry about the confidentiality of mental health services, fearing that their struggles might become known within their department, potentially affecting their career or position.​ Lack of awareness is another common reason police mental health is overlooked. A descriptive study revealed that only 34% of officers were aware of their department's stress or mental health services, while 38% were unsure about the available services.​

Unaddressed mental health problems can lead to severe consequences, not only for the officers but also for the communities that they serve. Officers may experience burnout, strained relationships, and a diminished quality of life which directly affects their well-being. ​Mental health issues can also affect their professional performance by impairing their decision-making, reducing productivity, and increasing the likelihood of errors in judgment.​ Officers struggling with mental health problems may be less effective in their duties, potentially compromising public safety.​

Addressing the mental health crisis among police officers requires a multifaceted approach. The establishment of peer-support programs is important as well. These programs allow officers to share experiences and provide mutual support. Research indicates that these programs can have a positive impact on officers' mental health in Ontario, Canada where it has been implemented. Regular mental health screening requirements are important too. These screenings can help in early identification and intervention. A systematic review identified 27 self-administered validated instruments useful for assessing various mental health outcomes in police officers. Training and educating officers about mental health can reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking behavior. Training programs that address mental health awareness and coping strategies are essential.​ Lastly, ensuring confidentiality in mental health services can alleviate officers' fears about seeking help. Departments should establish clear policies that protect the privacy of those who are seeking assistance.​

Mental health challenges police officers face are extremely exigent and multifaceted. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes promoting mental health, reducing stigma, providing accessible support services, and fostering a culture of openness within law enforcement agencies. By prioritizing the mental well-being of officers, we not only enhance their quality of life but also ensure the safety and effectiveness of the communities that they serve.

The Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD) has implemented several initiatives to support the mental health of its officers, recognizing the unique stressors associated with law enforcement.​

The ACCPD Behavioral Health Unit (BHU) was established to improve responses to mental health crises within the community. The BHU pairs sworn officers with mental health clinicians to address incidents involving individuals in the community who are in crisis. This collaboration not only benefits the public but also provides officers with direct access to mental health professionals, fostering a culture that prioritizes mental well-being. ​

The ACCPD also mandates a 40-hour Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) course for its officers, covering mental health disorders, de-escalation techniques, and effective interaction strategies with individuals experiencing crises. This training enhances officers' skills in managing stressful situations and promotes their mental resilience as well as their ability to help community members, and potentially fellow officers in crisis if needed. In addition, ACCPD responded to officers' requests for more in-depth mental health education, by developing a 24-hour advanced training program. This curriculum includes topics such as trauma-informed care, officer self-care, autism, and suicide assessment, equipping officers with comprehensive tools to manage both public interactions and personal stressors.

Lastly, in partnership with Advantage Behavioral Health Systems, ACCPD's Co-Responder Program teams officers with clinicians to address crises involving mental illness or addiction. This initiative not only improves community responses but also provides officers with immediate support during high-stress situations, emphasizing the importance of mental health care within the department. ​

Despite funding for seven crisis unit teams, ACCPD has faced challenges in staffing, currently operating with three teams. This shortfall underscores the broader issue of recruiting mental health professionals and highlights the department's commitment to expanding support for both the community and its officers. ​By integrating these programs, ACCPD demonstrates a proactive approach to officer mental health, fostering a supportive environment that acknowledges and addresses the psychological demands of law enforcement. 

Overall, the state of Georgia needs to continue working toward better mental health support for police officers to ensure a healthier and more effective workforce. While community crisis support and intervention are extremely important, we must also improve resources for officers who face high stress and trauma. While ACCPD has made progress, more statewide efforts are needed to expand support, reduce stigma, and prioritize officer well-being. Investing in their mental health not only helps them but also strengthens community trust and public safety.