Mental health disclosures and disability claims: an analysis of federal initiatives and challenges facing RCMP officers

Using a secondary data collection method, along with a descriptive research design, this project sheds light on the mental illnesses that RCMP officers experience, as well as the growing stigmatization. The RCMP Study (2024) is an ongoing study that has separated officers into two groups, one as status quo and the other receiving extra support, weekly check-ins and tasked with constantly reviewing their own mental health. This study is the start of a new future for the RCMP and how they view mental illnesses, including the disclosure and discussion of mental disorders. Comparing Canada and the RCMP to police forces in Australia and the United Kingdom, highlighted the fact that the RCMP is struggling to keep up, or rather, refusing to update their protocols and policies to conform with modern times. The RCMP is in need of change, and with the current barriers officers are faced with when disclosing mental health information, it is necessary for additional support and resources to limit the stress officers experience. Along with limiting stress, additional support may potentially reduce the stigma surrounding mental illnesses and educate more officers that there is help where they need it.