Strategies Police Agencies Can Implement to Improve Officer Mental Health

Author(s)

Robert Gleason, Liberty UniversityFollow

Date

2-28-2025

Department

Helms School of Government

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice (PhD)

Chair

Jarrod Sadulski

Keywords

mental health, police, leadership, officer wellness

Disciplines

Leadership Studies | Public Affairs, Public Policy and Public Administration

Recommended Citation

Gleason, Robert, "Strategies Police Agencies Can Implement to Improve Officer Mental Health" (2025). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 6525.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/6525

Abstract

The profession of law enforcement is commonly recognized as being extremely stressful. Policing has the potential to produce extraordinarily high levels of stress among officers, particularly in contemporary political and social situations. This stress can be induced by several reasons, including but not limited to the occupation itself, the organization, and the organizational leadership. Long-term exposure to chronic stress has been linked to adverse effects on mental and physical health, including post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, exhaustion, and, in extreme situations, suicidal ideations and attempts. This qualitative study examined strategies and initiatives that police officers believe would help agencies improve officer wellness before and following a traumatic event and foster a supportive, stigma-free environment, as well as tactics that leaders can use within the police department to address and promote mental health assistance and officer well-being. The researcher conducted this qualitative study through semi-structured interviews with certified police officers throughout Ohio. The research indicates that to promote officer mental wellness, there needs to be a holistic approach, including the involvement of the leadership, peer support programs, a shift of the culture within the organization, and increased access to mental health resources. The study offers useful suggestions for law enforcement organizations looking to create and execute mental health plans that meet the needs of officers, eventually enhancing their wellbeing and productivity.