Police perceptions of self-harm and suicide in Rajasthan and role of current policy and guidance: A report for the Rajasthan Police Academy. Research funded by UKRI. This work was supported by the Medical Research Council [Ref: MR/P028144/2]

Suicide is a complex and stigmatised issue in India set against the backdrop of recent decriminalisation of suicide. According to the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, police officers and personnel have an important role to play in suicide and self-harm prevention. However, not much is known about police officers’ perceptions of self-harm and suicide, what they perceive their role to be, and what training they receive. The current study explored these issues through online/ telephonic interviews with 20 police personnel, which included entry level, mid-level and high-ranking officers. Interviews were of 30 – 90 minutes duration and outcomes analysed using a thematic approach.
The following themes are presented and discussed:
 Experiences of self-harm and suicide,
 Definitions and reasons of suicide and self-harm,
 Societal reactions and impact on families,
 Challenges for the police and role of the police officer in suicide and self-harm,
 Availability of help, and
 Police training and support.
Findings indicate that police personnel find working with families and friends of people who have self-harmed or killed themselves as challenging. Some police initiatives are already underway to prevent suicide and self-harm, however a discussion about the police role is needed. Self-harm and suicide are also an important issue among police personnel due to stressful working conditions and the potential of being exposed to traumatic events. Support and prevention are essential to ensure staff welfare. Overall, multi-level and multi-agency action and research is essential in India which has the highest number of suicide deaths in the world.