The psychological impact of COVID-19 on police officers

Abstract

Police officers play an important role in protecting the community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, their role has posed a serious threat to their physical and psychological health and well-being. This study was designed to assess the prevalence of anxiety, depression, PTSD and compassion fatigue in police officers and to identify the factors that predict COVID-19-related physical and mental well-being. As part of a regular health surveillance programme, 3863 police officers recorded their physical exposure to COVID-19 and the extent to which COVID-19 had affected their psychological well-being. The study provides suggestions on developing evidence-based well-being interventions for policing.