OCCUPATIONAL STRESS, MENTAL STATUS AND PSYCHOLOGICAL NEEDS OF POLICE OFFICERS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN SOUTH INDIA

Abstract

Context: Policing being a stressful job already places police ofcers at a greater risk of mental health deterioration in emergencies like pandemics. Aims: To assess the occupational stress faced by the police ofcers and the stressors associated, mental status of the police ofcers and their psychological needs during the pandemic were assessed. Settings and Design: This was a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study done in midNovember during the last phase of Covid-19 unlock in India. Police ofcers of all cadre working in south India were included in the study. Methods and Material:The questionnaire consisted of 4 components to obtain data on demographic and occupational details, occupational stress, mental status, and psychological needs. Occupational stress was assessed using Police Stress Questionnaire (PSQ-Op) and mental status was evaluated using the DSM-5 Self Rated Level-1 Cross-Cutting Symptom Measure-Adult questionnaire. The questionnaires made were sent as Google form link to police ofcers of all cadre working in various regions. Statistical analysis used: Data obtained was entered into MS Excel and analysed using IBM SPSS version 21 software. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis of data. Tests of signicance were done. Results: The response rate was <10%. The sample population comprised 110 ofcers of which 97(88.2%) were males and 13(11.8%) were females. The mean age of the sample population was 40.22±8.878 years. Around 97% of ofcers experienced signicant occupational stress during the Covid-19 pandemic. Not enough time available to spend with family followed by over-time demands and shift work found to be signicantly associated with work stress. Female ofcers were under more work stress compared to male ofcers. Approximately 87% were found to have symptoms of anxiety which necessitates further investigation. Around 90% of the ofcers reported that they experienced higher psychological distress during the pandemic compared to before. Around 17% of the ofcers stated that they needed psychological support and counseling from experts to cope with their stress. Relaxation followed by a stronger relationship between police and the public were the most preferred psychological needs. Around 43.6% of ofcers and their family members were diagnosed with Covid-19 so far. Conclusions: To address the psychological needs and mental health problems of the police ofcers especially during unexpected situations like pandemics is the need of the hour. Stigmatization towards mental health in India should be addressed. Police ofcers should be encouraged and trained to use preventive measures against Covid-19 as they are at a greater risk of exposure to the virus.