JOHANNESBURG - The health and wellness of employees within the South African Police Force, is a cause for concern.
This as statistics reveal that over 300 police officers took their own lives in the past seven years.
Members say they are overworked, and there isn't sufficient support given to them, some ultimately suffering from Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Police union POPCRU met with some of these members over the weekend to highlight the stress officers face, and the lack of support available to them.
READ | Discussion | Addressing mental health and wellness of SAPS members
According to POPCRU's Richard Mamabolo, while SAPS is aware of the issues faced by police and have established support units to consult, he says these services have been marred with challenges.
Mamabolo says the services are not readily available due to where they are located but at the same time there is an issue of confidentiality.
SAPS Acting Deputy National Commissioner for Support Services,
Lieutenant General Lineo Nkhuoa says the SAPS lacks employee health and wellness experts, to oversee the entire force.
But members have access to other services, if they need to speak to someone about the stress in their jobs.