Breaking the Silence: Tackling the Stigma of Mental Health in Law Enforcement

Mental health is a heavy topic for many, but in law enforcement, it carries an additional burden. Officers are trained to be resilient, fearless, and unflinching in the face of danger. They stand on the frontlines of society’s toughest moments, often absorbing trauma that would break the average person. Yet, this expectation of toughness has created a dangerous paradox—it silences them when they need help the most.

The Weight of the Badge

Law enforcement officers experience unique and intense mental health challenges. Studies show that officers are at a 54% higher risk of dying by suicide compared to the general population. Despite this, most officers who have died by suicide never sought help. Why? The answer often lies in stigma—a pervasive force that discourages vulnerability and fosters silence.

For officers, admitting they are struggling can feel like admitting weakness, and in their profession, being “tough” is seen as non-negotiable. The very qualities that make someone a great cop—grit, endurance, and composure under pressure—become barriers when it comes to their mental well-being.

The Stigma Runs Deep

The stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement is fueled by both cultural and systemic barriers:

1. The Toughness Expectation: Police culture emphasizes resilience. Phrases like “suck it up” or “just do your job” often discourage officers from speaking out. Many believe that raising their hand for help might make them seem “unfit” for duty in the eyes of colleagues or superiors.
2. Fear of Judgment and Repercussions: Officers often fear being labeled as “unstable” or “weak.” Many worry that seeking help could harm their careers, limit their chances for promotion, or result in losing respect from peers.
3. Lack of Trust in Leadership: Even when departments offer wellness programs, officers are hesitant to use them if they feel their leadership doesn’t genuinely support their mental health. One negative experience—for example, a dismissive supervisor—can discourage an entire team from seeking help.
4. The Culture of Silence: There’s a “keep your head down and push through” mentality in law enforcement. Colleagues notice when someone is struggling, yet they might stay silent to avoid awkward conversations. This reinforces the idea that suffering in silence is the norm.

Together, these barriers create a perfect storm that prevents officers from accessing the support they desperately need.

The Consequences of Stigma

Stigma doesn’t just keep officers from raising their hands—it drives them further into isolation. Over time, the cumulative exposure to traumatic events wears down even the most resilient individuals. Without intervention, these pressures can lead to depression, burnout, sleeplessness, family breakdown, and yes, suicide.

Fatigue and overwork make matters worse. Some officers clock 65-hour workweeks for months on-end, compounding the effects of trauma while leaving no room for recovery. Unsurprisingly, research shows that the more someone is exposed to difficult situations, the higher their likelihood of needing mental health support. Without proactive measures in place, many officers risk becoming a tragic statistic.

Starting the Change

The good news? Stigma is breakable, and organizations play a central role in dismantling it. When departments take mental health seriously, officers are more likely to believe it’s safe to seek help. The research backs this up—breaking down stigma starts with a visible, honest commitment to wellness. Knowing that somebody cares, pays attention, and is willing to initiate tough conversations can make all the difference.

Action Steps for Agencies

To build a culture where officers feel supported, law enforcement agencies need to take meaningful action:

1. Annual Check-Ins with Mental Health Professionals: Regular, one-on-one meetings with certified counselors should be standard practice. When every officer participates annually, asking for help becomes routine—not a sign of weakness.
2. Peer Counseling Programs: Officers often feel more comfortable talking to a colleague who understands their unique experiences. Peer counseling is a proven strategy to create a safe, supportive network.
3. Proactive Notifications and Monitoring: Agencies can use data and reporting tools to identify officers at risk of burnout or those experiencing trauma. For instance, recognizing patterns like excessive overtime might help initiate helpful interventions early.
4. Leadership Support and Accountability: Trust starts at the top. When leaders openly prioritize mental health and handle employee concerns with care, officers are more likely to follow suit.
5. Confidential, Non-Anonymous Options: Anonymous resources are valuable, but they aren’t enough. Officers facing crises often need more direct support structures. Confidential but personalized systems create an impactful safety net for those who need it most.
6. Ongoing Training for Tough Conversations: Supervisors must be equipped to discuss mental health without worsening stigma. Compassionate, stigma-free communication makes it easier for officers to open up when they need help.

A Future Where Help Is Normal

Breaking the stigma won’t happen overnight, but the risk is too great to wait. Suicide claims far too many officers who could have been saved if someone had noticed their struggle, if someone had reached out, or if they had felt safe raising their hand.

By fostering a culture of trust and support, law enforcement agencies can help ensure that every officer has the tools and freedom to prioritize their mental health. These courageous individuals carry the weight of the world on their shoulders. It’s time we make sure they no longer have to carry it alone.

About the Author

Josh Bitsko is a retired law enforcement officer with over two decades of experience in policing, training, and wellness program development. Over his 24-year career with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, he served in various roles, including as a canine handler, child abuse detective, internal affairs investigator, and captain of the Las Vegas Strip. His frontline experience responding to critical incidents, including the October 1, 2017, mass shooting, shaped his passion for officer wellness and resilience.

Recognizing the urgent need for better mental health support in law enforcement, Josh spearheaded the creation of LVMPD’s Wellness Bureau, developing programs that addressed the unique challenges officers face. Under his leadership, the bureau expanded access to culturally competent clinicians, peer support initiatives, and resilience-based training. Now serving as the Vice President of Wellness Programs at Benchmark, Josh works with law enforcement agencies nationwide to implement data-driven wellness strategies. His mission remains the same: to ensure that no officer suffers in silence and that departments prioritize the well-being of those who serve their communities every day.