OFFICER HEALTH + WELLNESS
Our Commitment to the Support Our Officers' Well-Being
Preparing For Physical and Mental Wellness
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Encourage officers to prioritize their own health and wellness, and that of their family
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Respect our officers’ boundaries; if they are off duty, don’t contact them and let them have the day to decompress
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Place focus on officers’ well-being; especially during times of increased tension and stress
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Talk about physical health, mental health, and emotional wellness, often and openly
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Monitor our staff for any changes that seem out of the ordinary
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Take action when needed
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Recognize and account for potential obstacles for officers who are seeking and receiving help, and remove obstacles
Our Plan to Support the Physical and Mental Wellness of our Officers
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Maintain open dialogue through surveys, conversations, and focus groups.
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Give officers the confidence to raise concerns or to offer suggestions.
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Reassure officers that there will be no punishment or negative career impact associated with seeking help or expressing mental health support needs.
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Create and support a culture of health and wellness.
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Acknowledge that much is being asked of our officers and staff; show appreciation for their efforts and the sacrifices their families are making as well.
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Use our platform to create a positive narrative.
Setting Our Officers Up For Success in Terms of Safety and Wellness
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Train officers often. Take advantage of every moment to review protocols for responding to emergencies
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Speak to the importance of being knowledgeable about department protocols; being well prepared can reduce stress.
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Emphasize the need for officers to take care of themselves through exercise, good nutrition, intentional self-care, and sleep.
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Ensure that the shift is staffed appropriately for officers.
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Make Sheriff rounds and check in with our officers on the line.
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Remind officers of the importance of the “buddy system.” Tell them to look after one another and step in if needed.
Recognizing Signs of Stress in our Officers
Remind our officers there is strength in recognizing and admitting they need help; there is courage in seeking out that help. However, it is also important for public safety “families” to take care of each other. This not only means supporting one another, but also pointing out and acknowledging changing and/or risky behavior in your fellow officers. If you notice an officer in need of help, talk with them. As Sheriff, we should be able to pull them aside and check in. providing opportunities for dialogue by saying things like:
"Today/tonight was really rough. How are you holding up?"
“I’ve noticed you seem upset; do you want to talk about it?”
"Do you need anything? How can I help?"
We will always encourage our officers to seek assistance, and if they seem unwilling, offer to look into resources for them. Officers look to the Sheriff not only for orders but also for examples, answers, and advice; letting them know they are not alone and that we are there to help them can go a long way.