The overall lifestyle of policing can come with physical and mental strains that are sometimes unseen, often unspoken, and can often go untreated. What can be done to counter this?

It’s no surprise that police officers experience traumatic events more often than the average citizen. Their line of work brings them into contact with tragedies like murder, abuse, and violence from every walk of life. Consequently, it is no wonder that there are so many officers in need of help, but why are mental issues often left untreated in the police force?

Each year, roughly 43 million adults experience a form of mental illness in the United States. Although some police departments have started to implement mental health training programs such as the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT), there is still room for improvement in law enforcement’s response to mental health crisis situations.

Policing is a rewarding but very demanding job; physically, emotionally and mentally. Officers often see the worst of humankind or must deal with stressful situations. These duties can take a toll on their mental health and wellbeing.