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


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.


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.


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


The Facts

• Longevity of Law Enforcement Officers

• Divorce Rate

• Spousal Abuse

• Substance Abuse

• Depression

• Suicide


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


The Public

• All things to all people

• We are usually our own worst enemy. We are the first to criticize our behavior under stress.


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.


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.


Benefits of Peer Support Teams

• Decreased Absenteeism (Counseling Team Intl.)

• Positive affect on morale. Shows management cares.

• Is cost effective

• Increase productivity


Role of Staff Support

• Listen

• Assess

• Refer

• Peer Support is NEVER an alternative or substitute for professional mental health or substance abuse intervention.


• 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


A Recipe for Success

• Selection Process

• Unwavering Support from the Top!!

• First Line Supervisor Support

• Trusted and Respected Team members


Stand by Me……

• Support for First Responders


GOOD BYE & STAY SAFE!

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