AOHC Encore 2024-415 - Adverse Childhood Experiences and Psychological Distress among Police Officers

415 - Adverse Childhood Experiences and Psychological Distress among Police Officers

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The video transcript discusses a longitudinal study conducted on police officers in the Buffalo Police Department to examine the association between adverse childhood events (ACEs) and mental health outcomes such as PTSD, depression, and hopelessness. The study found that individuals with higher ACE scores were more likely to experience these mental health difficulties. It also explored the impact of dysregulation of cortisol levels on cardiovascular markers in police officers over time. The findings suggest a significant association between ACEs and mental health issues in police officers, with women officers having higher ACE scores than males. Additionally, the transcript touches on the importance of mental health check-ins and support programs for police officers to address the stigma around mental health and the challenges they face in their profession. The speaker addresses concerns about lowering standards in police recruitment and highlights the need for continued research and support for mental health in law enforcement.

Keywords

Longitudinal study

Adverse childhood events

Mental health outcomes

Cortisol levels

Women officers

Stigma

Police recruitment