Gracia-Lanchares S, Garrido-Hernansaiz H, Bueno-Guerra N, Rodríguez-Rey R. Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and Predictors Among Spanish Police and Armed Forces During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Spain.
J Occup Environ Med 2024;
66:506-513. [PMID:
38527186 DOI:
10.1097/jom.0000000000003104]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To assess the psychological impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the police and armed forces.
METHODS
Participants ( N = 242) completed an online survey that assessed posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), burnout, emotional suppression, and labor and sociodemographic variables. Mean difference, correlation, and stepwise linear regression tests were performed.
RESULTS
One-third of participants showed severe PTSS, linked to patrolling duties, very frequent contact with other people, fear of contagion, perceived pandemic severity, living with at-risk people, taking a COVID-19 test, working more than normal, suffering an assault, having little vacation, and having to distance from loved ones. PTSS also correlated with the burnout dimensions and emotional suppression. Three-quarters had not received any support from their workplace.
CONCLUSIONS
Effective interventions to optimize these professionals' personal, social, and working conditions are needed.
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