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Police Officer Stress. Pat Hinkle, MA, LPC, LMFT (W) 913-438-2100 (W & C) 913-927-2402 pat@HinkleAssociatesLLC.com. Stress Specific to Cop Work. Human growth & development stage Work & relationships are different! Cynicism makes me safe It also pays better Trauma exposure
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Police Officer Stress Pat Hinkle, MA, LPC, LMFT (W) 913-438-2100 (W & C) 913-927-2402 pat@HinkleAssociatesLLC.com
Stress Specific to Cop Work • Human growth & development stage • Work & relationships are different! • Cynicism makes me safe • It also pays better • Trauma exposure • Hypervigilance & stress dynamics • Taking control of personal life
Work & Relationships are Different! • Relationships • Looking for “trusted person to rely on aid” • How is that experienced • What happens when shift-system becomes imbalanced? • Does shift imbalance affect family-systems? • Priority: • Family, or • “trusted person rely on aid”
Hypervigilance & Stress Dynamics Hypervigilance is an enhanced state of sensory sensitivity accompanied by an exaggerated intensity of behaviors whose purpose is to detect threats. Hypervigilance is also accompanied by a state of increased anxiety which can cause exhaustion. Other symptoms include: abnormally increased arousal, a high responsiveness to stimuli and a constant scanning of the environment for threats. Hypervigilance is a symptom of posttraumatic stress disorder.
Taking Control of Personal Life • Exercise • Healthy diet • Stress outlets • Family support system • Social support system • Spiritual support system • Minimal use alcohol, tobacco & caffeine • Positive work environment • Acceptance of the event • Proactive interventions when needed • INSERT Agency EAP Service contact HERE • INSERT Agency Mental Health Insurance contact HERE
Conclusion • Lesson Objectives… • The law enforcement environment, culture & reliance upon our “brother/sister officer” for daily safety is a perfect recipe for stress. • Recognition, support systems & constant preventive maintenance are key to success. • “trusted persons who will come to their aid should difficulties arise,” is who we are… right here and right now.