Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and Predictors Among Spanish Police and Armed Forces During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Spain

Abstract

Objective To assess the psychological impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the police and armed forces. Methods Participants (N = 242) completed an online survey that assessed posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), burnout, emotional suppression, and labor and sociodemographic variables. Mean difference, correlation, and stepwise linear regression tests were performed. Results One-third of participants showed severe PTSS, linked to patrolling duties, very frequent contact with other people, fear of contagion, perceived pandemic severity, living with at-risk people, taking a COVID-19 test, working more than normal, suffering an assault, having little vacation, and having to distance from loved ones. PTSS also correlated with the burnout dimensions and emotional suppression. Three-quarters had not received any support from their workplace. Conclusions Effective interventions to optimize these professionals’ personal, social, and working conditions are needed.