Stigma is More Common Than You Think
By Peter J. Killeen, Ed.D., PBA Stress Counselor
Stigma is a word we hear a great deal about today in the mental health field. It is the primary reason preventing a law enforcement officer from seeking psychological assistance when dealing with trauma. One notable survey stated that a staggering 90% of police officers surveyed reported stigma as a barrier to seeking mental health services. Many police officers feel that getting help for mental health issues is a sign of weakness or may fear it could jeopardize their careers.
The most critical part of mental health counseling for law enforcement professionals is confidentiality. If a person seeks help of their own volition or is mandated by the department to be evaluated for fitness for duty, confidentiality should always be regarded as inviolable. However, the parameters around a management referral become more challenging. It is far better and more therapeutically sound for the individual to seek help independently.
Law enforcement officers need to prioritize and focus on their personal mental health and access counseling when needed. The nature of police work can be highly stressful and traumatic, and therefore, speaking with a counselor can help process experiences and develop coping strategies.
The stigma surrounding mental health refers to the negative attitudes and beliefs that often exist toward individuals who struggle with mental health issues. This stigma can have damaging effects on those who experience mental health challenges, making them feel ashamed, isolated, and discouraged from seeking help.
“Smash Stigma, Save Lives” - John Adler, President, FLEOA
Shame and a fear of being perceived as weak are common barriers that prevent law enforcement officers from accessing assistance for their mental health struggles. In the law enforcement community, there is often a culture of toughness and resilience that can make officers feel like they should be able to handle any challenges on their own. Officer reluctance to seek support for personal issues leads to high rates of stress, burnout, and even suicide within the profession.
The stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement can exacerbate this shame. Officers may worry about the potential stigma and repercussions of seeking help, such as being perceived as unfit for duty or facing negative judgment from their colleagues. Police officers are not immune to the effects of stigma around mental health. A culture within law enforcement often discourages officers from seeking help.
A question often asked related to mental health counseling is, “What’s the difference between the various mental health professionals?” This is an excellent question worth explaining in greater detail in this article.
Here is a simple breakdown:
Psychiatrist (MD) - a medical doctor who prescribes psychiatric medications
Psychologist (PhD, PsyD, EdD) - Doctor of Psychology - Counseling Services
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) - Master Level Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) - Counseling Services
Advanced Practical Nurse in Psychiatry - Master Level Nursing- can prescribe
Overall, reducing the stigma surrounding mental health counseling in law enforcement is crucial for promoting the mental well-being of officers and making sure they can perform their duties effectively and safely.
Peter Killeen, Ed.D.
(973) 819-8537
pjkil9265@gmail.com
