The Zambia Police Training College has conducted a Mental Health Awareness Program themed “No Officer Left Behind — Not Even in the Mind.” This initiative was introduced in response to growing concerns over stress-related challenges and the rising number of suicide cases among police officers.
Held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, the program aims to equip officers with essential emotional and psychological coping skills to promote resilience and overall well-being.
The initiative seeks to create a supportive environment where officers can openly discuss mental health challenges, learn practical strategies for managing stress and anger, and build stronger emotional stability.
In his opening remarks, the Division Commander, Commissioner of Police Mr. Mubita Nawa, emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental health within the policing environment.
“This program has come at the right time, when the Police Service is experiencing a number of suicide incidents among officers,” Mr. Nawa said.
He noted that policing is a demanding and emotionally taxing profession that often exposes officers to prolonged stress.
Mr. Nawa highlighted several contributors to stress, including unfulfilled expectations, marital challenges, financial pressures, and work-related trauma.
“Our mental health is very critical to our productivity. A mentally healthy officer is better positioned to provide effective, professional, and compassionate service to the public,” he said.
He urged officers to take their emotional well-being seriously, utilize available support systems, listen when colleagues reach out, and speak up whenever they face difficult situations.
As part of the day’s activities, three focused presentations were delivered.
The first covered physical and emotional pain, helping officers understand triggers, warning signs, and healthy coping mechanisms to prevent escalation into harmful actions.
The second presentation addressed stress management, introducing techniques such as relaxation exercises, time management, grounding strategies, and early detection of stress overload, skills essential in a high-pressure profession.
The final presentation centered on mental health awareness, touching on key topics such as depression, anxiety, trauma, burnout, and suicide prevention.
Officers were encouraged to seek help when overwhelmed and to normalize mental health conversations within the Police Service.
The goals of the program include raising awareness, reducing stigma, providing officers with practical stress-management tools, improving personal wellness, and ultimately enhancing job performance.
