Persistent Stigma Hinders Police Officers from Accessing Mental Health Support, Study Reveals

Police officers often face numerous traumatic incidents during their careers, which can significantly affect their mental health. Despite increased efforts by law enforcement agencies to promote wellness through programs such as counseling, peer support, therapy, and on-site gyms, many officers remain hesitant to seek mental health care. A recent study involving over 100 officers from the Fargo Police Department in North Dakota highlights that stigma surrounding mental health continues to be a major barrier. The study found that 60% of officers believed their peers would not disclose mental health issues to colleagues, and nearly 75% thought officers would refrain from informing supervisors. More than half agreed that such disclosures might lead to discrimination at work. According to Carol Archbold, a criminal justice professor involved in the study, societal expectations for police officers to be resilient and unemotional often discourage them from admitting struggles. She emphasized the importance of accessible mental health services and fostering workplace cultures that support officers in utilizing these resources. While departments have expanded mental health initiatives, including hiring wellness coordinators, peer support, and Employee Assistance Programs, utilization remains low due to fears of career repercussions and social stigma. Research indicates that police officers encounter traumatic events approximately three times every six months, accumulating to about 180 over their careers. Repeated exposure to such stressors has been linked to adverse health outcomes including poor sleep, depression, alcohol misuse, and PTSD. The study revealed that 53% of officers perceive seeking treatment for mental illnesses as a sign of weakness, and 40% believe mental health history could hinder career advancement. Interestingly, most officers do not believe that having a mental illness leads to mistrust or social exclusion among peers. The findings suggest that organizational culture and resource availability play crucial roles in whether officers feel comfortable seeking help. Many law enforcement agencies, regardless of size, struggle with funding mental health services, though leadership often expresses interest in providing adequate support. Budget constraints frequently limit the ability to expand mental health programs, underscoring the need for ongoing investment in officer wellness. Overall, addressing stigma and fostering supportive environments are essential steps toward improving mental health outcomes among police officers. source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-stigma-police-mental-health.html