Learning to balance police stress
Well...I think getting to know the people you work with in your department is vital. They will understand what you are going through better than "civilian" friends or even other family relatives. In other words, build up your support network from the beginning of your career with people you can trust. Hang'n out and talking with police buddies helps quite a bit.
I take care of myself physically by getting enough rest, good food, and exercise. I have found that as an officer you tend to rely on caffiene to get you through a work week. Let's face it. Officers have a screwy schedule, especially as rookies. A coffee, pop, or those Red Bull energy drinks are kind of like a food group in an officer's diet :-) to keep us awake. But be careful with the caffiene. I found myself with high blood pressure within a year because I relied on it too much and coupled with stress made my health go out of sorts. I don't have high blood pressure anymore, but don't be like me and try and stay up 31 friggin' hours to do family stuff, work, and chores around the house. Tell your loved ones to leave ya alone so you can sleep.
I go shooting at the range and find it to be a great stress reliever and I am improving my shooting skills at the same time. I wish I had the money to do it every week. But for the most part, I take long walks or curl up with a good book. Every now and then I'll go out with another officer just to hang with someone I trust.
Each person is vastly different in relieving stress. I don't think there is such a thing as "the best way to relieve stress". You have to find your niche and stick with it.
"Is your number still 911?" - Ofc. Rachel T.
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