Description
Law enforcement officers operate in one of the most caustic environments day in and day out. Officers are given instruction on how to correct most concerns that may arise from service calls. Whether it be critical thinking, use of force, or arrests, law enforcement officers must problem solve to make a situation better for the consumer of their services. Officers enter into the consumers lives on what could be described as the worst day ever and are expected to stifle the sights, sounds, and smells while continuing to provide high levels of service. Police agencies expect that through proactive supervision, policies, and self-awareness if there was a problem with an officer someone would step forward and say something. In a culture of silence and machismo this does not work. Data and studies are indicating a trend that more officers commit suicide than die in the line of duty each year. Mental health programs for officers help reduce not only suicide, but also the effects of job related stress to include long term medical conditions. Law enforcement officers should not only be taught how to thrive in the day to day caustic environment but also how to survive and thrive for their entire career to include retirement. Law enforcement agencies should have mental health programs for their employees to ensure their mental health well-being.
