Hidden Pressures of Policing: Stress in the Job
When most people think of police officers, they picture individuals in sharp uniforms, racing to crime scenes, arresting suspects, and maintaining law and order. But behind this image lies a profession that is far more complex, demanding, and mentally taxing. Policing involves daily exposure to trauma, stress, and the darker sides of humanity, which can take a significant toll on officers’ mental health. As a former police officer in the Metropolitan Police and now a mental welfare coach and hypnotherapist, I’ve seen firsthand the pressures that can build up over time and the devastating effects they can have on officers’ well-being.
The Reality of Policing
Policing is a dynamic and multifaceted role that requires officers to be adaptable and resilient. The shifts can vary from early mornings, where you’re wrapping up incidents from the previous night, to late shifts where the streets come alive with new challenges. Contrary to the glamorous portrayal in the media, policing is often about dealing with mundane but critical tasks like paperwork, victim support, and community interactions. However, the adrenaline-filled moments are never far away, and these can range from high-speed chases to life-and-death situations.
In my early days as a police officer in Brixton, I quickly learned that crime isn’t just about the act itself but about the people involved. Getting to know local offenders on a “professional” level became part of the job. Building rapport, even with those you arrest, can sometimes make the process smoother. However, in recent years, I’ve noticed a shift. Newer officers, perhaps fearful of complaints, have become more robotic, adhering strictly to procedures without engaging meaningfully with suspects or victims. This detachment can lead to increased stress as officers lose the human connection that can often make the job more bearable.
The Hidden Pressures
Frontline policing is just one part of the story. Behind the scenes, control rooms are managing dwindling resources, CID officers are piecing together complex cases, and specialised units are dealing with everything from counter-terrorism, Searching, Public Order and Traffic policing. Each of these roles comes with its own set of stresses.
Reduced staffing levels mean that the small number of officers are expected to handle more incidents, with less time to decompress between shifts. When large-scale events occur, such as public unrest or major ceremonial events, the same officers who have already worked gruelling hours are called upon to step up again, often sacrificing their mental health in the process. This is exacerbated by the fact that rest days are frequently cancelled, and officers are expected to work through their exhaustion.
The Human Toll
Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed both the best and worst of humanity. I’ve seen lives brought into the world and lives tragically lost. I’ve been called to help those in desperate situations, from victims of domestic violence to individuals contemplating suicide. I have lost count the number of scuffles and fights I have had but each of these incidents leaves a mark. Over time, the cumulative effect of such experiences can lead to mental health struggles, burnout, and even the decision to leave the force altogether.
The reality is that policing often involves dealing with traumatic and heartbreaking situations. Despite this, officers continue to turn up for work day after day, driven by a deep sense of duty to their colleagues, the public, and the role itself. But this sense of duty can be a double-edged sword. It can lead officers to push themselves beyond their limits, resulting in burnout and mental health crises. A Cambridge University study reported that 1 in 5 officers suffer from ptsd.
The Impact of External Factors
The pressures on police officers don’t end with their immediate duties. Prisons are overcrowded, leading to operations like “Op Early Dawn,” where prisoners are held in police stations until space becomes available. This adds to the workload of already stretched officers. Similarly, ambulance crews often find themselves queued up outside A&E departments, unable to respond to new calls, leaving police officers to fill the gap. I recall waiting three hours with a man who had a broken ankle because no ambulance was available and they had a ‘first aider’ with them!. Researchers analysed responses from 16,857 officers and operational staff who participated in 2018 found that 90% of police workers who responded had been exposed to trauma.
When there’s a fire, police are often the first to arrive, helping with evacuations and road closures. Mental health incidents are another area where police are frequently called upon to step in, often because other services are unwilling or unable to take responsibility. I’ve had to take young people, including a newborn, into police care for their safety. These incidents are not only heartbreaking but also incredibly stressful as officers struggle to navigate a system that seems more interested in passing the buck than providing real solutions.
Mental Health Struggles in Policing
The cumulative stress and exposure to traumatic incidents can take a severe toll on police officers’ mental health. Research has shown that police officers are at higher risk of developing mental health issues such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety
One of the most significant challenges is the stigma associated with mental health in policing. Many officers feel that admitting to struggling with their mental health could be seen as a sign of weakness, potentially jeopardising their careers. This fear often prevents them from seeking help until they reach a crisis point, which is too late.
Strategies for Managing Stress in the Police Service
So, how can we better manage stress within the police service? Here are a few strategies:
- Open Conversations About Mental Health: Encouraging open dialogue about mental health within the force is crucial. Officers need to feel that they can speak up without fear of judgment or repercussions. Studies have shown that peer support programs and mental health awareness initiatives can significantly reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues in policing. Mind charity tips..
- Implement Regular Decompression Periods: After particularly challenging shifts, it’s essential for officers to have time to decompress. Whether this is through formalised support systems or simply allowing for adequate rest, it’s vital for long-term mental health. Research suggests that regular debriefings and structured time off can help mitigate the effects of cumulative stress .
- Peer Support Networks: Establishing peer support networks can provide officers with a space to share their experiences and receive support from colleagues who truly understand the challenges they face. Peer support has been shown to be effective in reducing feelings of isolation and promoting mental well-being. Trojan Wellbeing Support has helped so many emergency service personnel with mental health, careers and complaints.
- External Mental Health Resources: Sometimes, internal support systems may not be enough, far too often seen as a tick box exercise by managers. Access to external mental health resources, such as counselling and therapy, can provide an additional layer of support for officers in need. Some police forces are now partnering with external mental health organisations to offer specialised services to their officers .
- Promote Healthy Work-Life Balance: Encouraging officers to maintain a healthy work-life balance, even in such a demanding profession, can help reduce stress and prevent burnout. Research has shown that officers who have a strong support system outside of work are better able to cope with the stresses of the job .
Conclusion
The stress and demands of policing are undeniable, but with the right support, officers can continue to serve the public while also protecting their own mental health. As someone who has walked in those shoes, I am passionate about helping current and former officers find ways to manage their stress and maintain their well-being. It’s time to recognise the human side of policing and ensure that those who protect us are also protected from the toll their job can take.
If you or someone you know is struggling with the pressures of policing, I’m here to help. Reach out through CPTSD Rrelief, and let’s work together to find a path towards better mental health and well-being.
Stay strong, stay well.
