On Police and their Health

I can strongly attest to the necessity and effectiveness of policies and programs to improve the health and wellness of our police officers. Mid-career, after seven years as chief of police, I was burnt out, “a crispy critter”… after years of fighting with the police union while my marriage was breaking up. I asked my mayor, Joel Skornika, for a leave of absence. He agreed (He could have said no and I would, at the time, have simply quit).

My time off was unpaid. I took out a loan and off I went to heal… travelled, met old friends, skied and hiked mountain trails. But most important was that I had time to reflect on my life, where I was going, and met a future partner.

I took three months off and then returned… renewed, refreshed, and went on to transform (through caring, listening, and collaboration) the police function in Madison, Wisconsin. [The results of this respite are captured in my book, “Arrested Development” and in a biography by journalist Rob Zaleski, “Beyond the Badge.”]

Leadership today means Servant Leadership, highlighted by loving and caring for all people both inside and outside the police department. [BTW: It’s possible!]

From a recent article in Police One:

“In a pioneering move to support the mental well-being of its police force, the Berea (Kentucky) Police Department has announced the introduction of a counseling program aimed at helping officers manage the stress and challenges inherent to their profession.

“This initiative seeks to mitigate the personal and professional impacts of job-related stress, potentially reducing turnover and enhancing public safety.

“The program allows officers to take two weeks off to engage in counseling, with the goal of preventing any negative impacts of job-related stress. The initiative not only underscores the city’s commitment to its police force’s mental health but also represents a strategic move to curb the financial and social repercussions of high turnover rates…” Read the full article HERE.

Thanks to police trainer, Bruce Sokolove (aka “Coach Sok”) for forwarding this article to me and the work he and others are doing to improve the health and wellness of our nation’s police.

Remember, only healthy and emotionally solid men and women will be able to effectively police a free and diverse society such as ours and gain the trust and respect of those whom they serve!