Police Professional Liability: The Importance of Stress Management

Law enforcement officials need Professional Liability coverage for a number of reasons, but mainly because of the potential legal issues that come up regarding the personal responsibility that officers have when engaging in certain activities. There are a variety of factors that affect a police officer’s job.  In addition to protecting themselves financially, officers should focus on protecting their health by recognizing the symptoms of stress, understanding its effects, and learning the importance of stress management.

Many researchers say that stress contributes to alcoholism, drug abuse, and the second highest divorce rate in the nation. In addition, stress puts police officers at increased risk for:

• High blood pressure
• Heart problems
• Insomnia
• Suicide
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Depression
• Anxiety disorders
• Infection caused by immune dysfunction

So, what can police officers to in order to manage their stress? Here are a few general ideas.

• Eat healthy
• Go home after your shift is over
• On days off, forget police work
• Have hobbies
• Make friends outside of work

For some police officers, managing stress may take a lot more than just eating right or enjoying a hobby. In this case, it’s important to know where to find help. Help could be in the form of a trusted friend or family member or it could be professional advice from a psychiatrist. Officers should never feel ashamed if they feel overwhelmed. Most supervisors understand the experiences their officers go through because they have been there themselves, and may even grant a leave of absence if deemed necessary.

No matter what role you play in law enforcement, stress will affect not only your health, but your job performance, your co-workers, and the public that you serve. At Professional Governmental Underwriters, Inc. we understand the personal and professional risks that police officers face every day. We are dedicated to assisting public, educational and non-profit entities in the management of their professional liability exposures. Contact us today at (800)586-6502 for more information.