Barriers to engaging with mental health support services for police officers in Ireland

Police officers are routinely exposed to stressors which can negatively impact their mental health. This paper presents findings from an anonymous online survey undertaken by 98 members of An Garda Siochána (the Irish police force). It considers Irish police officer perceptions of mental health support and the barriers they face to accessing and engaging with mental health support. Barriers to engaging with support included the impact of stigma, the potential negative impact on career progression, a lack of trust in the support services and a general lack of resources.