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Police work can be rewarding but comes with unique pressures. The long hours, exposure to trauma and high-stakes decision-making, can significantly impact your mental health. Which means that taking care of yourself, is just as important as the job you do.
The mental health impact of policing
- Burnout and exhaustion: An Oskar Kilo survey^ showed that 67% of Officers report physical exhaustion and 58% emotional exhaustion which could lead to less compassion and increased stress from trauma
- Stress levels: In 2024–25, 17,752 officers were signed off for stress, depression, anxiety, or PTSD – a 22% increase from the previous year*.
Simple steps you can take to help protect your wellbeing
- Take short breaks – Even a few minutes to breathe or stretch can help reset your mind
- Talk to someone – Sharing experiences with colleagues or friends reduces isolation
- Healthy habits matter – Hydration, balanced meals and exercise boost resilience
- Try mindfulness – Breathing exercises or grounding techniques can calm stress
Where to Find Support
Whether you need emotional support, practical advice, or healthcare services, there are dedicated resources available to you. Below are options offering confidential assistance, mental health support and wellbeing tools designed specifically for Police Officers.
Police Mutual
- 24/7 Care Line: Confidential support for anxiety, bereavement, financial stress, including mental health support
- Private healthcare access: Covers in-patient and day-patient treatment (up to £30,000/year) and 24/7 GP consultations
- Wellbeing Hub & Toolkit: Practical guides, calendars, and exercises for mental, physical, and financial health
- Financial Support Services: Debt advice through PayPlan, savings, insurance and mortgages tailored to the police community.
Blue Light Programme
Mind launched its Blue Light Programme in 2015. The programme focuses on reducing stigma and changing workplace culture to encourage open mental health conversations. Click here for more information.
Oscar Kilo – National Police Wellbeing Service
- 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Line: 0300 131 2789
- Evidence-based resources and toolkits to create psychologically healthy workplaces.
Police Care UK:
Is a charity offering confidential emotional, practical and financial support to serving and retired officers and their families affected by policing-related harm.
Thin Blue Line UK:
Is a free, app-based therapy and wellbeing support for serving officers, seamless and confidential.
Lifelines (Scotland-specific):
Includes Employee Assistance Programme (Vivup), Trauma Risk Management (TRiM), peer support, and family support tailored for Police Scotland staff
Your role is vital and so is your wellbeing. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether it’s a quick chat with a colleague or reaching out to Police Mutual or another support organisation, support is always available. Take care of yourself, because when you’re at your best, you can continue protecting others with confidence and resilience.
Sources: *teampolice.uk^Oskar Kilo national wellbeing survey 2025