Almost daily I get calls were email from police officers who complained that they can't find a doctor they can trust, or family member who wants to know what to do because their police officer spouse is having problems but will not seek psychological support.

Frequently, police administrators, who feel they must micro-manage a problem (this is a control issue) make the mistake of telling the medical/mental health community what they should be doing for, to, the officer involved. Further complicating the problem, it is not unusual for police administrators to request medical/psychological information on an officer in treatment, thus creating ethical issues for the clinician involved, contribute to mistrust on the part of the officer in treatment, and further complicating an already complicated situation.

There is no doubt, however, that it is police officers themselves that deserve much of the blame in the lack of proper psychological support for law enforcement.

Job induced suspicion and fear is the primary culprit here. Albeit much deserved suspicion of the medical/mental health community and fear of what the doctor will "find out." Fear that the word will get back to the department, and fear of losing ones job also play into NOT seeking psychological support when needed.

To be sure, the medical/mental health community too much to contribute to this fear. Recent statistics indicate that you have a 50 percent chance of being missed diagnosed in the doctor's office (one could argue that by the nature of the job, police officers may be at even greater risk for best diagnosis than the public at-large), and a 50 percent chance of having your records lost or an improper procedure performed in the ER room.

To say nothing of clinicians who are unfamiliar with police work and to respond with inappropriate information when faced with an agencies request for information on an officer in treatment.

But, there is something that police officers can do about this problem.

1. Take control of your treatment.

A. Ask questions, i.e., what does this medication do? Well I'd be able to work? If I discuss a problem with two well I'd get back to my agency? If I tell you to keep something confidential will you do so? Am I fit for duty, if so, will you say so?

B. Remember, most states REQUIRE ethical behavior from doctors. If you tell them something in confidence they are usually required to keep it in competence.

C. many states allow officers to choose their own doctors. If you don't like the doctor's attitude or don't feel you can trust them -- yet another doctor.

D. if the visit is required and you don't like what you hear, get a second opinion (again, many states make provisions for this).

2. Be aware that few doctors know, or even like, police officers. Diffuse told the doctor what you need and they are unable, or unwilling, to comply -- find another doctor -- one that is willing to listen to you.

Physicians tell us that up to 98 percent of the patients they see daily are there mainly for stress related issues. One way to reduce stress is to take some of the control back in your life -- your doctor should understand this -- if he or she does not understand this, try explaining it to them. If they still don't "get it," exercise your right to choose another doctor, one who is willing to listen and who is willing to grant you the respect you deserve.