Hotel Agalia in Murcia will host this Wednesday the 26th Day of Suicide Prevention in Security Forces and Bodies, organized by Csif in collaboration with Jupol, the largest unit within the National Police. One of the event’s sessions will feature Laura González López, a Police Council member and Secretary of Jupol Occupational Risks and Equality, who will discuss strategies to prevent police officers from taking their own lives.
Do you still think it’s taboo when you talk about it? suicide police?
There is growing openness to address the issue. A national plan for mental health and suicide prevention has been developed to support many police officers. The plan, created with contributions from specialist professionals, became a reality in 2020. The effort is supported by the union and its resources, including a 24 hour psychological help service known as SOS Jupol, which handled hundreds of consultations last year.
What characteristics make police officers more vulnerable to mental health struggles?
The job involves high emotional demands and stress. Carrying a firearm, irregular shifts, family reconciliation challenges, and the heavy responsibility of policing all contribute to vulnerability. These factors interact with individual personality traits and personal circumstances to shape overall risk.
With several officers in Murcia having taken their lives since 2016, what steps are most urgent to drive that number down?
Removing the idea that zero is simply achievable is not realistic. Efforts focus on understanding the situations officers face during interventions and promoting emotional self care. It is crucial to educate about emotional self awareness and to guide responders through difficult interventions so they can protect their mental health.
Can officers with serious psychosocial disorders remain on active duty?
Operational posts are not the sole option; there are management positions that may suit different stress levels. Medical professionals including doctors and psychologists determine fitness for duty in such cases. The National Police also permits job adaptations. Several Jupol colleagues have adjusted their roles to match their psychophysical needs, an effort the union supports to help members maintain prosperity at work according to their circumstances.
Should governments take action to reduce police suicides?
The aim is to allocate resources and implement preventive measures that reduce risk. It is essential to increase access to psychologists across all police headquarters. In some regions, officers must travel to other provinces to receive mental health support. The goal is to ensure psychologists are available in every district to conduct preventive activities and timely psychological interventions for the force.
How can society support police officers in daily mental health challenges?
Police work is demanding and demands a high level of responsibility. Everyone should recognize that officers are people who balance duty with personal life, just like other professionals. The job carries significant social responsibilities and humanitarian implications, which makes community understanding and support valuable.
Does daily contact with offenders and victims affect psychological well being?
Some officers work directly with offenders or victims of serious crimes. This exposure, including dealing with cases of gender-based violence, human trafficking, and child maltreatment, can impact mental health. Fortunately, preventive measures are integrated into many units, reflecting in comprehensive mental health initiatives within the security services.
And what about families?
Families often worry about the risks associated with duty. Yet they learn to cope, supported by the knowledge that officers are highly trained to manage stress and maintain resilience on the job.