Studies suggested around 70% of people experience a major traumatic event in their lifetime. Police officers sometimes respond to multiple traumatic events in one day.
It doesn't have to be the job itself. Sometimes it's the vicarious trauma that sneaks up on us. Sitting with a family while they wait for news that their loved one passed away. Breaking the news that turns someone's life upside down. Hearing that another brother or sister in blue died in the line of duty, or by suicide.
Police officers are human beings and experience the same stressors in their personal lives as everyone else does. We have families, relationships, health issues and trauma.
Just because we're at greater risk for PTSD and suicide doesn't mean we're powerless. Seeking help isn't a sign of weakness, it's a sign of strength.
Resources are available if you want them. You can be in therapy through your private health insurance carrier without having to notify the department. It's time to start taking care of ourselves the way we take care of everyone else. Our lives depend on it.
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