NCJ Number
110543
Journal
Trooper Volume: 10 Issue: 1 Dated: (Spring 1988) Pages: 18-21
Date Published
1988
Length
4 pages
Annotation
After reviewing common sources of police stress, this article discusses remedial programs to reduce stress.
Abstract
Although adjustment to the first five years of police work is reported to be the most stressful period, the following six years can be equally as difficult. Sources of on-the-job stress regardless of experience can include Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which is associated with trauma relating to victimization, i.e. being shot, shooting someone, or having one's family threatened. Stress, combined with poor diet, smoking, coffee drinking, alcohol use, and lack of exercise, can be responsible for a high elevation of specific diseases among police officers. These include digestive and circulatory system disorders, cardiovascular problems, and cancer. Remedial programs should include periodic physical exams, educational programs, healthful dietary and exercise programs, and relaxation exercises. Another form of treatment is the Bach Remedies, natural substances free from side effects which are effective in stabilizing negative emotional and psychological disturbances. Examples include aspen for anxiety and apprehension and mustard for depression. In a clinical study in New York City, 80 percent of psychiatric patients who were given preparations of these substances showed significant improvement. A natural, gentle-acting remedy called Rescue Remedy has been found to calm and stabilize individuals in a wide range of stressful and emergency situations.