Is There A Mental Health Crisis In Digital Forensics?

Content warning - this episode discusses suicidal feelings.

Prof. Sarah Morris joins the Forensic Focus Podcast to discuss the critical topic of mental health within the digital forensics field. The conversation covers the impact of traumatic content on analysts, the gaps in mental health support services, and the challenges faced by the industry due to work-related stress.

The episode also explores strategies for coping with mental health issues, the role of AI in mitigating exposure to sensitive content, and the importance of organizational changes to better support professionals in the field.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this episode, these organisations may be of help:

Samaritans – https://www.samaritans.org

Mind – https://www.mind.org.uk

Oscar Kilo – https://www.oscarkilo.org.uk/

Occupational health unit (OHU) – all police forces have access to an OHU providing a range of support services

Employee Assistance Scheme (EAS) – check with your employer to see what specific resources are available to you

GP – your GP can provide access to various local resources and make referrals to psychological support services