DID YOU KNOW? 83% of police officers report that their mental health affects their work.
(DAVID BLACK, PH.D)
IN 2024, A TOTAL OF 2,833 LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS REPONSPONDED TO A SURVEY CALLED “WHAT COPS WANT IN 2024: THE STATE OF OFFICER WELLNESS.” THE DATA COLLECTED SHOWS THE SEVERITY OF THE STRESS POLICE OFFICERS FACE AND THE PRIMARY CAUSES.
(Police1)
CONSEQUENCES OF WORK- RELATED STRESS
71%
Struggled with sleep disturbances.
50%
Experienced heightened anger.
50%
Indicated relationship or family issues (such as arguments, tension, and conflicts)
39%
Were affected by depression.
36%
Endured anxiety or panic attacks.
35%
Reported Post-Traumatic Stress, PTSI, or PTSD.
11%
Harbored suicidal thoughts specifically due to work stress
16%
Reported thoughts of suicide within the last year.
sources of stress
61%
Long or irregular work hours.
60%
Understaffing.
60%
Work-life demands.
58%
Exposure to traumatic events.
57%
Cumulative trauma impacts.
50%
Suicide is always preventable. If you are having thoughts of suicide or are feeling suicidal, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988. Counselors are also available to chat at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. You deserve support. It is never too late to seek help. Speak with someone today.
Poor leadership.
David Black, Ph.D. “The Police Wellness Crisis: New Research and Recommendations.” Police1, Police1, 19 Sept. 2025, www.police1.com/what-cops-want/the-police-wellness-crisis-new-research-and-recommendations.
CALL
Mass211 or the MA Behavioral Health Helpline (833-773-BHHL) for immediate guidance.
COPLINE: 1-800-267-5463 (24/7 confidential support for active/retired officers & families).
RESOURCES
CONTACT
McLean's LEADER (Law Enforcement, Active Duty, Emergency Responder) program at 617-855-3141 for specialized care.
McLean’s offers specialized mental health and addiction services for police officers with confidential support for officers and their families.
SEEK
Peer support. Reach out to your department’s designated peer support advisor or CISM team.
https://www.mass.gov/doc/massachusetts-peer-support-network2022/download