The Police Delusion: Why Policing Might Not Be As Rewarding As You Think | Ep 3

The Blue Light Diaries

TRIGGER WARNING
(Mention (briefly) of recalling various crime scenes whilst driving around areas previously worked in)
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The police force claims to provide adequate mental health support, but is that really the case? Today, we draw a bold comparison between Richard Dawkins' "The God Delusion" and the mental health support system within policing. Just as Dawkins advocates for scientific inquiry over blind faith, we argue for evidence-based mental health programs to address the systemic issues, funding cuts, and staff shortages that plague our police force. This episode uncovers the gaps between the perceived and actual support available to officers and emphasises the critical need for change.
Imagine working in a high-stress environment with multiple traumas, only to find that the support programs in place are inadequate. We call for a cultural shift towards prioritising mental health within policing, much like Dawkins’ call for rational thinking. Isolated and unsupported, many officers find themselves facing burnout and untreated trauma. Through personal anecdotes and expert insights, we explore why traditional mental health programs like EMDR and CBT fall short and the institutional barriers that prevent effective mental health care.
Lastly, we share the stories of officers whose pleas for help were met with rigid and impersonal responses, including my own journey of being rejected by the head of welfare due to a lack of a degree. These experiences underscore the urgent need for a more empathetic and flexible approach to mental health care within policing. We emphasise the importance of seeking help early and urge our listeners to spread the word, fostering a culture of openness and support in the police force and emergency services. Tune in to understand why no one should feel alone in their struggles and how we can work towards meaningful change.

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Capíttulos

1. "Policing and Faith (00:00:00)

2. Supporting Mental Health in Policing (00:09:57)

3. Mental Health Challenges in Policing (00:21:12)

4. Supporting Emergency Service Worker Mental Health (00:28:36)