1. Mental Health for Law Enforcement
Coping with Stress
(Excerpt)

2. Handle Stress AVOID UNNECESSARY STRESS + Learn how to say “No”
Know your capability limits in what you can accomplish via your skill and time limits.
+ Avoid people who create stress
If you have a friend who is constantly creating drama, you may need new friends.
+ Control your environment
Learn to control your environment when possible to avoid stressful places. Go to the store when it is off-peak hours.

3. Handle Stress ALTER YOUR SITUATION + Express your feelings
Talk about what is stressful with your spouse, friend or other nonjudgemental person.
+ Compromise
Be willing to accept suggestions or ideas from others if you are asking the same.
+ Be assertive.
Don’t let issues fester. Deal with problems head-on.
+ Time Management

4. Handle Stress ADAPT TO THE STRESSOR + Reframe problems.
Stuck in traffic? Think of it as a way to take time to listen to music, pray or call an old friend.
+ Look at the big picture.
Does it matter in the long run? Will you care in a year, month, day what was said in the locker room?
+ Adjust your standards.
Set reasonable standards. If you are constantly disappointed by your job, perhaps you should re-examine what your expectations.

5. Handle Stress ACCEPTANCE + Can’t control the uncontrollable
Other people’s behavior you can address but can’t force change.
+ Look for the upside
Look for silver lining in life. New partner is a pain, but it’ll help with a promotion.
+ Learn to forgive.
Grudges only hurt the one holding the grudge. Learn to forgive or at least give someone a second chance.
Handle Stress

6. Handle Stress MAKE TIME FOR FUN + Set aside time to relax
Make the first fifteen minutes after getting home time for you to unwind.
+ Connect with others
Facebook, church, bowling leagues; find a group that you can bond with.
+ Do something that you enjoy EVERY DAY!
Every day you should include something that you enjoy doing for at least 30 minutes. Read, play a game, watch soap operas, listen to Backstreet Boys.
Handle Stress

7. Handle Stress ADOPT A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE + Exercise regularly
30 minutes of exercise is recommended at least three days per week. Play ball, jog…avoid weights.
+ Eat healthy
Lien Hot Pockets are probably not your friend. Multiple small meals are better than huge portions.
+ Reduce caffeine
Make the coffee stretch a little longer.
+ Sleep
Most adults need 6 – 8 hours for peak performance.
Handle Stress