Cumulative Stress: What is it and how to Safely Manage it in Law Enforcement

While being a police officer has its own set of stressors, the pandemic has added additional strain to one’s physical and more importantly mental well-being. Are you finding yourself giving so much to others that you have nothing left for yourself?

When you have nothing left for your own life, you may shut out your own families and friends and seek isolation. Try as you might, separating your work life from your personal life is much more complicated. There are healthy ways to deal with the stressors and trauma of the job by utilizing the support systems in your personal life and enjoying your life away from work. In this presentation, we will identify and discuss the fallout of the 24/7 mindset of today’s police officer.

As cumulative stress is a prominent feature in one’s law enforcement career, we will look at the prevalence, impact, and why this should be an area of concern for every police officer as well as department. We will examine the prevalence, impact, and key features of stress, compassion fatigue and burnout/moral injury. We will discuss the stress factors, both professionally and personally, which put officers at risk for PTSD. As domestic violence cases can be especially traumatizing and stressful, we will recognize the key features and discuss the impact of vicarious trauma and secondary trauma.

We will discuss how you and your family can take control of your life and career and help others. We will emphasize stress reduction and health and wellness, as well as identify ways to make a positive difference in your workplace.