Police officers face danger, stress, and life-altering events every day. Responding to emergencies, witnessing violence, and making split-second decisions are part of the job. Over time, these experiences can take a heavy toll on their mental health. The National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) has been actively addressing these challenges, focusing on trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among law enforcement professionals.
In 2021, the FOP conducted the “Critical Issues in Policing” survey, which revealed that 44% of active officers reported experiencing psychological distress. This highlights the urgent need for mental health care within the law enforcement community. Police officers are 25.6 times more likely to develop PTSD compared to people in other jobs, making specialized mental health support crucial.
Recognizing this crisis, the FOP has advocated for legislative changes to provide better care. In March 2023, they urged the U.S. House of Representatives to pass S. 645, the “Fighting Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Act.” This bill aims to create advanced treatment programs for public safety officers experiencing PTSD and related disorders.
Additionally, the FOP supports initiatives like H.R. 6008, the “Traumatic Brain Injury and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Law Enforcement Training Act.” This legislation focuses on developing training tools to help officers interact effectively with community members suffering from PTSD and traumatic brain injuries.
One highly effective therapy for treating trauma is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR therapy helps people process traumatic memories in a safe environment. During sessions, a therapist guides the client through distressing memories while using eye movements or other sensory inputs. This helps reduce the emotional impact of the memories and allows the brain to heal.
Research shows that EMDR can significantly reduce PTSD symptoms, including flashbacks, anxiety, and emotional numbness. For police officers, this means a path toward feeling more in control, less emotionally overwhelmed, and better equipped to manage the stress of the job. EMDR is endorsed by mental health organizations like the American Psychological Association and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Seeking mental health care is not a sign of weakness—it’s a powerful step toward healing. Police officers risk their lives to protect the public, and they deserve access to the best care available when dealing with trauma. If you or someone you know is struggling, consider reaching out to a mental health professional trained in EMDR. Prioritizing mental health can save careers, relationships, and even lives.