Police-Encounters-With-People-In-Crisis

II. Overview of Issues Highlighted by Stakeholders
56. Several stakeholders emphasized that TPS officers cannot be expected to achieve
the best possible outcome in interactions with people in crisis if officers are suffering
from psychological injury themselves. Those in “helping professions,” who often witness
pain and suffering as part of their jobs, are at risk of “compassion fatigue” or vicarious
trauma. However, those in the helping professions can also be the least likely to ask for
help themselves.
57. One stakeholder credited the TPS for its voluntary EFAP. However, the same
stakeholder expressed the view that many TPS employees refuse to access EFAP
services, as they fear that this will jeopardize their jobs or make them otherwise appear
weak to their co-workers. This stakeholder quoted one police officer, who stated, “most
officers will not speak to anyone at the EFAP—can you imagine what it is like knowing
that they will tell others about what’s happening to you. It is just far too risky, police
officers are not supposed to show weakness—we are not supposed to be emotionally
disturbed.” This stakeholder recommended more informal peer support groups among
officers, kept within ranks so officers can feel safe in expressing themselves.
58. Another stakeholder emphasized the need for peer support groups within police
services. Such groups allow for officers to speak openly about their shared experiences
and collectively support each other. Officers learn coping mechanisms from people with
similar experiences and, in the process, they often come to recognize that seeking help
for psychosocial injuries is not a weakness. Peer support can also help reduce stigma
associated with mental health issues. A comprehensive set of peer support programs
may include traditional one-on-one support, facilitated groups, as well as innovative
holistic programs that incorporate training into support programming. I understand
that there are organizations that are expert in this field that would be pleased to work
with the TPS to develop peer support training and programs specific to their needs.
III.
Recommendations
59. I recommend that:
RECOMMENDATION 33: The TPS create a formal statement on psychological
wellness for TPS members. This statement should:
(a)
(b)
(c)
acknowledge the stresses and mental health risks that members
face in the course of the performance of their duties;
confirm the Service’s commitment to providing support for
members’ psychological wellness;
emphasize the importance of members attending to their mental
health needs;
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