The NPF, in partnership with the University of Regina, studied the Mental Health of serving RCMP Members across Canada through the collection of an online survey between June 2022 to February 2023. The representative sample analyzed included 1,348 Members from various backgrounds, ranks, and locations.
The NPF is deeply thankful to the brave Members who provided their insights and lived experiences through this survey. Their contributions to improving mental health services for their peers and police officers across the country is tremendously appreciated.
What We Found:
- RCMP recruits are typically more mentally healthy and resilient than the general population, which aligns with the substantial responsibilities required of them.
- Members, through the function of their service, are exposed to a variety of potentially psychologically traumatic events while experiencing significant organizational and operational stressors.
- The results of frequent exposure to potentially psychologically traumatic events, unique and challenging stressors, and inadequate mental health supports are a high prevalence of mental health disorders and suicidal behaviour.
To help break down the results of the report and better understand how the NPF will address this growing challenges, NPF President and CEO Brian Sauvé sat down with University of Regina Professor of Clinical Psychology and Scientific Director for the Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment, Doctor Nick Carleton. We encourage you to take a few moments to view the video below.
Our Recommendations
The current state of mental health of Members, as well as organizational and operational stressors is worsening, outlining the immediate need for investment in comprehensive, accessible, and evidence-based mental health supports. By investing in a broad range of mental health initiatives, we can create a safer, healthier, and more resilient law enforcement workforce, ensuring they receive the care and guidance they rightfully deserve.
To ensure RCMP Members receive the support they need, the NPF is urging the RCMP to start a dialogue with the NPF, private service providers, and the Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment, to discuss a strategy that is holistic, independent, and centered around prevention, early identification, and treatment.
This can only happen if the Government of Canada makes a commitment to invest in mental health guidance, training, and treatment programs for police officers, especially within the RCMP.
About the National Police Federation
The National Police Federation (NPF) is the sole certified bargaining agent representing ~20,000 Members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) across Canada and internationally. The NPF is the largest police labour relations organization in Canada and is the first independent national association to represent RCMP Members.
