CJ 406 Project Two

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School

Southern New Hampshire University *

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406

Subject

Psychology

Date

Apr 3, 2024

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docx

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3

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Tamara A. O’Neal February 18, 2024 Professor Christopher Davis Mental Health Wellness for a Federal Law Enforcement Agent CJ 406 PROJECT TWO Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice
JOB FACTORS AND STRESS The nature of federal law enforcement work involves several risks, and federal agents frequently encounter demanding and ever-changing situations while performing their duties. They are often faced with several types of line-of-duty deaths including but not limited to: Fatal accidents such as car crashes and collisions during a pursuit. Situations where they confront armed individuals or dangerous suspects, leading to fatal encounters. Undercover work where they may face risks due to the nature of their assignments, increasing the potential for dangerous situations. Incidents involving the use of firearms, either during confrontations or accidents. Terrorism attacks. WARNING SIGNS Recognizing indications that a criminal justice professional may be regressing on the wellness continuum toward developing mental health issues or suicidal tendencies is essential for early intervention and support. These indicators may include behavioral changes, withdrawal, decreased performance, physical symptoms, increased substance use, expressions of hopelessness, reckless behavior, talk of suicide or self-harm, difficulty coping with trauma, sudden relationship changes, loss of interest, and increased absenteeism. All of the above are crucial signs of on-the-job stress and once recognized one must be encouraged to seek help from mental health professionals or support services to safeguard the individual's well-being RESOURCES, HABITS, AND PROGRAMS Various resources, habits, and programs are available to support criminal justice professionals in addressing stress, mental health issues, and suicidal tendencies to return to a healthier lifestyle on the wellness continuum. Resources include confidential counseling services provided by employee assistance programs, peer support groups, and mental health hotlines. Developing healthy habits such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, mindfulness practices, and seeking social support can also aid in managing stress and promoting mental well-being. Additionally, programs specifically designed for law enforcement, such as Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) sessions which were designed to facilitate a triage like process for a nonpsychiatric population, in the face of a critical incident as a means of returning the individual and/or the organization to levels of prior functioning (Malcom, A. et.al, 2005) resilience training, and mindfulness-based stress reduction programs, offer targeted support to address the unique stressors faced by criminal justice professionals. These initiatives aim to equip individuals with coping strategies, enhance resilience, and facilitate the transition to a healthier lifestyle, ensuring they can effectively navigate the demands of their profession while prioritizing their mental health and well-being.
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