In just over the past decade it has become common knowledge that law enforcement personnel, along with other emergency services workers, are a population highly prone to suffering with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). As a direct result of their work, there is regular involvement with traumatic events over the course of their entire careers. This is especially true for those of us working in the field of critical incident stress management. For those individuals in law enforcement, however, who generally entered into their careers as physically and mentally “strong,” highly idealistic, and caring people, PTSD is often quite baffling. Moreover, it is a concept that is hard to accept by those who are following the mantra “to protect and serve.” Understanding the needs of this unique population that is highly prone to PTSD is imperative for mental health professionals attempting to assist survivors with healing and moving beyond this disorder.

Too often in law enforcement, personnel equate mental disorders with being “crazy” and they feel that an emotional response to trauma indicates “weakness.” This myth must be erased. Law enforcement personnel must come to admit that they, too, are “normal” human beings who react in “normal” ways when exposed to abnormal events that make up their job environment. It is important to consider that this is an environment that lends itself naturally as a “set up” for PTSD. To this end, education becomes most imperative!

Resources

The PTSD Association of Canada is a not for profit organization that exists to help those experiencing post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), those at risk for PTSD and those who care for traumatized individuals, as well as their families, friends and fellow workers and medical community.

The National Center for PTSD is part of the U.S Department of Veterans Affairs, which is the federal branch that provides health services for military service members and their dependents. Its website is dedicated to educating clinicians and the public on the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for PTSD.

PTSD Foundation of America This nonprofit is committed to increasing public awareness of PTSD, as well as providing support to those living with the condition and their families. The foundation has a variety of programs designed to promote healing and offers a wealth of resources on peer mentoring, group meetings, and other forms of counseling.