New mental health hotline to end police culture of ‘toughing things out’
Queensland Police are launching a new mental health hotline aimed at addressing the culture of 'toughing things out' among officers. Detective Bree Sonter highlighted the lack of support for police dealing with trauma and stress, which has led to severe mental health issues. The initiative follows a review that revealed significant psychological distress within the force, prompting the need for improved wellbeing strategies.
- ▪Detective Bree Sonter emphasized the challenges faced by officers during their early years in policing.
- ▪A review found that up to 14 percent of Queensland's police officers suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder.
- ▪The new hotline aims to provide support and reduce the stigma associated with seeking help for mental health issues.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Sydney Morning Herald.