Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness

Officers in law enforcement agencies (LEAs) experience long-term health morbidity and mortality at rates exceeding other occupations and the general population. The purpose of this study was to pilot a survey of officer safety and wellness to demonstrate feasibility, assess the need for further research, and lay the groundwork for policies and additional support for officer wellbeing. A random sample of 184 officers from 11 participating LEAs responded to a survey regarding physical activity patterns, job characteristics, substance use, critical incidents, job-related stress, personal health, and health-care usage. Officers reported physical health outcomes at rates similar to the general population but screened positive for elevated rates of posttraumatic stress disorder, common mental disorders, and alcohol misuse. These data support the need for research at the regional and national levels to inform LEA policies and programs.