Mental Health, Wellness, and Stress : Analysis of Law Enforcement Officers in the Chippewa Valley

Abstract

Policing is a high-stress career that can lead to or exacerbate mental health issues experienced by officers. The purpose of this project was to identify and analyze stressors and mental health needs of local law enforcement officers as well as coping mechanisms used when dealing with stress. The study location helps us learn more about unique stress-inducers and mental health needs of officers in small and medium-sized departments. We surveyed officers from multiple law enforcement agencies and conducted follow-up interviews with those who wanted to provide more insight. We found that departmental policy, decision-making within the criminal justice system, salary, and interpersonal relationships were significantly related to feelings of stress. Further, we found that perceptions about mental health and wellness resources were significantly related to an officer’s rank. Use of specific coping mechanisms was mitigated by an officer’s sex. Additionally, officers reported that mental health resources were provided through their department in various ways including debriefing, peer support, and professional counseling. That said, officers suggest that resources could be improved or expanded. This poster will highlight these findings, and more, in-depth and discuss the implications of the results.