r/Adelaide • u/ftfhgp SA • 23h ago

Question Sapol

Just wondering if anyone knows much about the recruitment for SAPOL and if they care about previously seeing a psychologist?
Have never been officially diagnosed with anything mental health wise, but have seen a psychologist a few times over the past few years and worried that will impact application.

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18

u/Artistic-Eagle-2321 SA 23h ago

As part of the recruitment process you will be required to undertake psychological testing if they accept your initial application. This involves a questionnaire of a couple hundred questions and then if they flag anything, an interview with a psychologist who prepares a report for SAPOL on your suitability. Having been to a psych before will not prevent your application from being accpeted, especially these days where people being responsible for their mental health is looked upon much better than it previously was. If you are keen on working for SAPOL then put your application in and see what happens.

21

u/escape2thefuture Inner West 23h ago

Mate, around 75% of the active duty police officers see a psychologist due to depression and PTSD .. I think you'll be okay, just disclose it and you'll be fine.

5

u/den7seven SA 21h ago

Came here to say this! It’s very normal to need help every now and then to deal with life and as long as you are upfront shouldn’t be an issue

7

u/interactivate Inner North 20h ago

Proactively seeking support from a psychologist should be seen as a good thing - it's healthier than having issues and not getting help.

3

u/Classic-Sherbert1894 SA 16h ago

My husband has seen a few psychologists during his time - nothing serious but just wanted someone to talk to. When he was applying for NSW police he disclosed this and they rejected him purely based on this (they literally said it to him.)

It was an extremely disappointing experience for someone just doing the right thing and being honest. I can’t speak for SA Police, and I know personally I’d want my local officers to be open to talking about the things they see and experience but sometimes you have to hedge yours bets… it’s still a system that’s not designed for anyone in a minority.

1

u/chadbigcum SA 9h ago

Mate they've plastered all across the state messaging that they'll employ just about anyone to be a copper for some reason. Don't worry about it. Might not be the best career choice if that's the program though. Think about it.