The Invisible Barrier: Mental Health Stigma

Mental Health in Public Safety Personnel 

Public safety personnel (PSP)face unique stressors, such as shift work, exposure to traumatic events, and moral injury, the psychological distress resulting from actions, or the lack thereof, which violate one's moral or ethical code. These factors contribute to increased risks of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

A Canadian national survey conducted in 2016 and 2017 revealed that approximately 44.5% of PSP reported clinically significant symptoms consistent with one or more mental health disorders. Notably, 23.2% exhibited symptoms indicative of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) 

Symptoms of mental health challenges in PSP may manifest subtly, including irritability, social withdrawal, and poor sleep. These signs can be easily overlooked but may indicate underlying mental health conditions that require attention. Other subtle signs may include increased absenteeism, difficulty concentrating, heightened sensitivity to criticism, and notable decrease in productivity or job performance. Additionally, physical symptoms such as frequent headaches, gastrointestinal issues, or unexplained fatigue can also point to mental health struggles. Over time, if these symptoms are ignored, they may escalate and contribute to burnout, emotional exhaustion, or more severe conditions like anxiety or depression, which can have long-term effects on both the individual and the workplace. 

The Consequences of Stigma  

Stigma surrounding mental health refers to negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes directed toward individuals experiencing mental health conditions. In public safety organizations, stigma can manifest through dismissive comments, labeling colleagues as "weak" or "unfit," and discouraging open discussions about mental health.  

This stigma often leads to silence, denial, and delayed treatment, as individuals may fear judgment or repercussions. Consequently, PSP might avoid seeking help, exacerbating their conditions and potentially leading to severe outcomes such as suicide. 

The ripple effects of stigma extend beyond individual well-being, impacting safety, productivity, and team dynamics. Untreated mental health issues can impair decision-making, increase absenteeism, and reduce overall effectiveness within public safety organizations. 

Understanding Mental Health Stigma: What It Looks Like and Where It Comes From  

Understanding the nature and origins of mental health stigma is the first step in dismantling it, both at an individual and systemic level, especially in high-stress environments like public safety where the consequences of silence can be severe. When stigma remains unchallenged, it reinforces a cycle of shame, isolation, and delayed care, making it harder for individuals to acknowledge their struggles or seek support.  

This is particularly dangerous in public safety organizations, where the expectation to be strong, reliable, and resilient can lead individuals to suppress their emotions or push through serious mental health concerns. By recognizing stigma as a barrier, not a personal failing, we can begin to shift the culture toward one that values openness, empathy, and psychological safety.  

Here are three different types of stigmas that contribute to the silence, underreporting, and lack of support surrounding mental health in public service sectors: 

• Public Stigma: Involves society's negative attitudes toward individuals with mental health conditions, often manifesting in stereotypes, discrimination, or dismissive language. This can create an environment where people fear being seen as weak or incapable if they disclose their struggles. 

• Self-Stigma: Refers to the internalization of these societal attitudes, where individuals begin to believe negative stereotypes about mental illness and apply them to themselves. This can lead to feelings of shame, reduced self-worth, and reluctance to seek help—even when support is available. 

• Structural Stigma: Is embedded in the policies and practices of institutions, including those within government and public service. Policies that inadequately address mental health, lack of supervisor training, and insufficient support systems contribute to environments where stigma persists and mental well-being is deprioritized. 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Mental health stigma. https://www.cdc.gov/mental-health/stigma/index.html 

Corrigan, P. W., & Rao, D. (2012). On the self-stigma of mental illness: Stages, disclosure, and strategies for change. The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 57(8), 464–469. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3610943/ 

Corrigan, P. W., & Watson, A. C. (2002). Understanding the impact of stigma on people with mental illness. World Psychiatry, 1(1), 16–20. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1489832/ 

Government of Canada. (2018). Federal framework on posttraumatic stress disorder: Recognition, collaboration and support. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/federal-framework-post-traumatic-stress-disorder.html