PUBLIC HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD) AMONG LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS OF ISLAMABAD

Abstract

Introduction:  Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in law enforcement is an overlooked but important issue to the general public's health, especially in Pakistan. Police officers are often involved with traumatic experiences that may have permanent psychological impacts. Nevertheless, mental health support and adequate interventions are lacking to provide advantages to this vulnerable group.

Objective(s): The objectives of the study are to assess the prevalence, effects, and health consequences of PTSD among law enforcement officers in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Materials & Methods: A cross-sectional study will be conducted between January and June 2025, during which 200 current law enforcement officers in Islamabad will be involved. Structured questionnaires (e.g., PTSD Checklist used according to DSM-5 (PCL-5)) were used to gather data. The relationship between PTSD symptoms and different demographic and professional variables was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including chi-square tests and independent t-tests.

Results:  The results showed that 30% of the officers had PTSD symptoms, and the traumatized officers were much more vulnerable to being diagnosed with the same. The severity of PTSD in the officers was greater among the officers who served fewer years of service, meaning the less experienced officers were more susceptible to PTSD. Job satisfaction was related negatively to the severity of PTSD.

Conclusions:  PTSD is a significant issue of public health among law enforcement agencies in Islamabad. The research indicates that elaborate mental health programs, such as periodic PTSD checks and guidance, should be carried out to enhance the mental health and job performance of officers.