Exploring Mental Health Challenges Among Police Officers: A Qualitative Study of Maharashtra Police Constables

This qualitative study explores the mental health challenges faced by police constables in Maharashtra, focusing on stress, anxiety, fatigue, and coping mechanisms. The police force in Maharashtra, exposed to high-stress situations such as trauma, violence, and public order management, is prone to mental health difficulties. Despite these pressures, mental health support remains limited, and stigma prevents officers from seeking help. Through semi-structured interviews with 30 constables, including both male and female participants with varying years of service, the study uncovers the factors contributing to mental health deterioration, the barriers to accessing support, and the coping strategies employed by officers. Findings reveal high levels of job-related stress, gendered experiences of mental health, and a reliance on peer support, physical exercise, and spirituality as coping mechanisms. However, institutional support for mental health is minimal, and the stigma surrounding mental health remains a significant barrier. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions, such as gender-sensitive policies, formal mental health services, and efforts to reduce stigma within the police force. This research provides valuable insights for improving the mental health and well-being of police constables in Maharashtra.