The Emotional Self-Care (ESC) training must begin at the academies and continue, annually.
1.BLOCK ONE – UNDERSTANDING REAL MENTAL HEALTH IN LAW ENFORCEMENT
GOAL:Not only to prevent suicide, but keep officers from becoming suicidal (or in crisis)
The myths behind mental illness and suicide
The need for accuracy and truth in today’s training programs
It’s not “all about us” any more.
The “Crisis of Denial” in the ranks of law enforcement
2.BLOCK TWO -- STRESS AND TRAUMA
The difference between “stress” and “trauma”
Critical and Cumulative Trauma
The impact of “dirty little secrets” in law enforcement
Maladaptive coping techniques
3.BLOCK THREE -- THE LIFELONG DEVELOPMENT OF RESILIENCE
The multiple / adaptable definitions of “Resilience”
Commitment to finding meaningful purpose in life
A belief in one’s ability to affect the outcome
A belief one can learn and grow as a result
Acceptance (particularly of what one does not like)
Self-reliance (standing apart from “the pack”)
Spirituality (which need not be religious)
4.BLOCK FOUR – ANNUAL MENTAL HEALTH CHECKS
Voluntary, confidential, the department not to know
Officer may use EAP or outside therapist through own co-pay.
No requirement for reporting
The value to the individual officer (health/ wellness/ other comparisons)
Trauma preparation, stress relief, personal development
Development of individual resiliency.
Why the checks should be at least annually
5.BLOCK FIVE – RESOURCES
Peer Support Officers
Drug and Alcohol programs (Private, AA, NarcAnon, law enforcement if available)
Family therapy, other 12-step programs (CODA, etc)
Other
6.BLOCK SIX – FINDING THE THERAPIST FOR YOU
Minimum licensing and qualifications
Should I insist on a “cop-doc?”
The interview and the first visit
The “Journey”
7.BLOCK SEVEN – (FOR MANAGEMENT)
The administrative/economic advantages of a good emotional health program.
“Suicide Prevention” programs are still necessary – they are the “other half of the formula.
It’s not “just” about suicide.
Defusing the fear of officers having total confidentiality.
The absolute need for management support and direct involvement
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