Peer Support in Law Enforcement. The Essence of Peer Outreach Support.
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Transcript of Peer Support in Law Enforcement. The Essence of Peer Outreach Support.
Peer Support in Law EnforcementPeer Support in Law Enforcement
The Essence of Peer Outreach Support
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
Peer Support on San Francisco PD
• VIDEO
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
Why a Peer Program?
• Macho Image
• Distrust of most MHP’S
• Discussion with fellow employees is an acceptable alternative
• The emotional toll of law enforcement work can be devastating.
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
Structured and Trained Support
• We are our brother and sister’s keepers
• We DO take care of our own
• Trained Peer support can assist fellow officers and employees in crisis.
• This training is for those who want to assist others by making appropriate decisions and giving good advice.
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
Trained Peer Support in Law Enforcement
• Communication Skills• Recognizing a crisis and what to do• Understanding depression and it’s dangers• The suicide risk• Substance abuse issues• Assessment and referral techniques• Critical incident stress intervention and de-briefing
procedure
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
The Facts
• Longevity of Law Enforcement Officers
• Divorce Rate
• Spousal Abuse
• Substance Abuse
• Depression
• Suicide
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
Law Enforcement Stress and Peer Support The Workplace
• Performing within acceptable guidelines
• Shift work, overtime, and pay concerns
• Supervisors can be a major cause of stress to employees
• Burnout
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
The Public
• All things to all people
• We are usually our own worst enemy. We are the first to criticize our behavior under stress.
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
Physical – Emotional Demands of the Job
• Must be in good physical condition to perform the job
• Can’t let feelings out for fear it will be seen as a sign of weakness
• Must be able to handle all the situations encountered on the job which sometimes carries over into home life.
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
Those who are affected will find a way to cope………
• Hopefully it is in the form of physical exercise, relaxation, hobbies,quality family time.
• But often the coping mechanisms take the form of self medication (alcohol), prescription drug abuse, domestic abuse, and even suicide.
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
Benefits of Peer Support Teams
• Decreased Absenteeism (Counseling Team Intl.)
• Positive affect on morale. Shows management cares.
• Is cost effective
• Increase productivity
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
Role of Staff Support
• Listen
• Assess
• Refer
• Peer Support is NEVER an alternative or substitute for professional mental health or substance abuse intervention.
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
• Traumatic and long term stress can be released and resolved given proper channels
• Understanding management is one of those channels
• Peer support and critical incident intervention is another channel
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
A Recipe for Success
• Selection Process
• Unwavering Support from the Top!!
• First Line Supervisor Support
• Trusted and Respected Team members
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
Stand by Me……
• Support for First Responders
Copyright © 2001, Law Enforcement Wellness Association
GOOD BYE & STAY SAFE!
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