The French national police are grappling with a troubling trend as the first suicide of 2025 has been reported, involving an officer from the anti-crime brigade in Saint-Quentin. This tragic event adds to the grim tally of 53 police and gendarmerie suicides recorded in 2024, a figure that, while still alarming, marks a meaningful decrease compared to the peak years of 2019. Authorities attribute this decline to ongoing mental health initiatives aimed at supporting officers, although experts like Colonel Gaël Ronde caution against overestimating the impact of these measures. The establishment of psychological support services in the late 1990s has been pivotal, yet the need for continued vigilance and improvement remains critical as the police force confronts the complex challenges of mental health within its ranks.
Time.news Interview: Understanding the Rising Suicide Trends in the French National Police
Editor: Today, we are discussing a heartbreaking and urgent issue: the suicides within the French national police. We’ve recently seen the first reported suicide of 2025,involving an officer from the anti-crime brigade in Saint-Quentin. Can you provide some context on this troubling trend?
Colonel Gaël Ronde: Certainly. The suicide of this officer underscores an ongoing crisis that has persisted over the years. In 2024, we recorded 53 suicides within the police and gendarmerie forces, which, while still alarming, reflects a decrease from the tragic peak years experienced in 2019.This change gives us a glimmer of hope but also highlights the serious implications of mental health issues in law enforcement.
Editor: What do you attribute this decrease to? Are the government’s mental health initiatives making a real difference?
Colonel Ronde: Authorities credit the decline to a series of mental health initiatives that have been introduced, notably the psychological support services established in the late 1990s. Thes efforts have been pivotal in providing officers a place to seek help. Though, I urge some caution against overestimating their impact. While progress has been made, it is crucial that we remain vigilant and continue to improve these services. The complexities of mental health within our ranks require a sustained and evolving response.
Editor: It’s encouraging to hear that ther are initiatives in place,but what more can be done? Are there practical steps that can be taken to further support police officers?
colonel Ronde: Absolutely. First, improving access to mental health professionals is essential. This includes not just individual therapy but also group support sessions where officers can freely discuss their experiences. Additionally, fostering a workplace culture where seeking help is normalized can greatly reduce stigma. Regular training for officers and their families on mental health can also be beneficial. It’s about creating an environment that encourages open conversations and support.
Editor: Given the psychological toll of policing, how can the public contribute to a supportive environment for officers?
Colonel Ronde: The public can play a significant role by cultivating an understanding and appreciation of the challenges faced by police officers. Engaging in community dialogue about mental health can help bridge gaps between law enforcement and citizens, fostering trust and support. Moreover, advocate for policies that prioritize mental wellness across all sectors, not just within policing.
Editor: As we look forward, what advice would you give to police departments in handling mental health crises among their officers?
Colonel ronde: Departments must adopt a proactive stance on mental health. This means regular mental health assessments and creating a seamless integration of mental health resources into the daily routine of officers. Leadership must be trained to recognize signs of distress among their teams. It’s essential that departments create action plans that are not onyl reactive but also preventative.
Editor: Thank you, Colonel Ronde, for shedding light on this critical issue. The integration of improved mental health strategies within the French national police is vital not just for the officers but for community safety as a whole.
Colonel Ronde: Thank you for highlighting this issue. It’s a collective duty, and ongoing dialogue is key to fostering a healthier environment for our officers, ultimately benefiting us all.