What is it about?

This article explores the relationship between extreme stress and thoughts of suicide among police officers in Jamaica. Our study revealed that high levels of stress are related to thoughts of suicide. Furthermore, this relationship varies when age, gender and rank are considered.

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Why is it important?

Many police officers experience high levels of stress which negatively impact mental health. However issues of mental health are met with stigma. As a result many officers many officers suffer in silence and in some instances commit suicide. This work highlights that there are significant levels of suicidal ideations within the Jamaica Constabulary Force which need immediate attention.

Perspectives

I hope this article gives people a better understanding of the difficult experiences of police officers. In the Jamaican context there are many negative perceptions of police officers. However many often overlook the intensity and demands of the job. Many officers have inadequate coping strategies and little or no social network to buffer stress. Therefore, it is important that the Jamaica Constabulary Force makes great effort to adequately address the mental health of police officers.

Candice Wray
University of the West Indies

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This page is a summary of: The relationship between burnout and suicidal ideations among Jamaican police officers, International Journal of Police Science & Management, July 2019, SAGE Publications,
DOI: 10.1177/1461355719856026.
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