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Strengthening Mental Health Key to Supporting NZs Police Officers

Picture of Allister Rose

Strengthening Mental Health Through Exercise: Key to Supporting New Zealand's Police Officers

The Hatikvah Blue Hope Foundation remains steadfast in our commitment to the rights and well-being of New Zealand's police officers, especially those battling PTSD. In this blog, we spotlight the critical link between physical activity and mental health, emphasising the need for this crucial support not only for the general populace but, most importantly, for our police service members facing the challenges of PTSD.

In recent discussions with ACC and police third-party ACC providers, exercise's significant mental health benefits have been brought to the forefront. Despite police officers' innate recognition of exercise's positive effects, there's a pressing need for increased support from the organisations tasked with their care. This necessity is intensified by cost-cutting measures, which compromise the quality and availability of vital support services for officers, thus complicating the recovery journey for those with PTSD.

The disregard for medical advice for injured police officers, either for procedural convenience or through neglect, exacerbates this issue, degrading the standard of care provided to our police workforce. As a result, many officers leave the service, disillusioned by the institutional betrayal and disregard for their sacrifices.

A BMJ study reinforces the argument, highlighting that even low-intensity activities like walking or yoga can deliver considerable mental health benefits. This evidence serves as a crucial reminder of the need to incorporate accessible, simple physical activities into the recovery plans for individuals dealing with depression and PTSD.

The World Health Organization reveals the extensive global impact of depression, affecting over 300 million people. This ailment severely affects sufferers' quality of life, employment, and social engagement. In this context, exercise not only complements traditional treatments but stands out as a powerful primary intervention for mild to moderate depression.

Acknowledging the healing power of exercise is essential for our police officers, who put their lives on the line for our community's safety. They merit access to customised exercise programs that cater to their specific needs, bolstering their physical health, mental resilience, clarity, and sense of community.

Our commitment goes beyond recognising the benefits of exercise. We are devoted to safeguarding our police officers' rights under the Health and Safety at Work Act, the Employment Act, and within the ACC frameworks. Our goal is to establish comprehensive support systems that truly honour the sacrifices made by these individuals.

By advocating for policies and practices that support accessible, personalised exercise programs within the overarching support for our police service, we aim to bridge the gap between policy intentions and actual support on the ground. We utilise evidence-based research and practical examples to reinforce our advocacy for these necessary changes.

The path to improved mental health for our police officers and all New Zealanders is a collective endeavour. It requires the active participation of healthcare providers, policymakers, and community leaders. We can significantly enhance mental health outcomes by fostering an environment that promotes physical activity, contributing to a healthier, more resilient police service.

Our united mission towards zero suicide within the NZ Police is strengthened by advocating for accessible exercise options and comprehensive mental health support. By acknowledging our officers' courage and advocating for their health and well-being, we take significant steps toward fostering a healthier, safer community for everyone.