Law enforcement mental health: A systematic review of qualitative research.

Abstract

The aim of this review was to explore qualitative accounts of law enforcement (LE) officers' personal experiences of mental health, in terms of linguistic descriptions, relationships between occupational experiences and mental health, and challenges to maintaining mental well-being. Using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines, 1,876 articles were screened, and 31 studies were included in the current review. A risk of bias assessment was used to assess the study's methodological rigor, and data were extracted to answer three exploratory research questions. Results revealed that LE officers frequently experience occupational stressors and identify different mental health difficulties as a result. Additionally, cultural norms and stigma prevalent in the LE profession were noted to contribute to experiences of mental health and impact LE officers' ability to reach out for help and utilize professional resources. This review suggests that efforts to offer mental health services to LE officers need to prioritize cultural competence, confidentiality, and education to overcome stigma and increase mental health literacy and service use. Stakeholders addressing the LE mental health crisis may find this review useful due to several practical recommendations offered. Impact StatementThis review suggested that law enforcement officers' subjective experiences of mental health are multifaceted, impacted by both on-and off-duty experiences, and influenced by cultural norms and stigma. While stigmatized beliefs varied, common themes included fears of loss of job, reputation, or social support for reaching out and seeking professional help. Stakeholders addressing the LE mental health crisis should aim to increase mental health education and reduce stigma at individual and organizational levels to positively impact mental health service use among this population.