When we talk about law enforcement, the thing that gets most of our attention is physical safety, while we rarely talk about mental tactics that are essential for a smooth career in the police.



The importance of mental tactics is simply undeniable, especially now because the common narrative about a career in police is that it is not a rewarding job. In fact, the narrative nowadays is even worse. People believe that cops live a thankless life, and they leave their job damaged and broken.

However, according to me, our careers don't necessarily lead us to a damaged life with lesser benefits as compared to problems. Yes, we do encounter tragedies and severe setbacks, but this doesn't define the life we live. 

In 1975, when I stepped into this profession and joined LAPD Police Academy, I was determined to do a job that most of us fail to do. I knew that I would be facing "highs" and "lows" during my career, but I was prepared for a life full of twists.

I went through two extremely impactful incidents early in my career. The first of those happened in 1979. A drive-by shooting shot a 4-year-old girl on her chin. I, along with my partner, stayed with the girl until the ambulance came. There was her blood on me, and I was livid with the fact that how inhumane someone can be to shot a child.  That was a turning point for me because that day, I decided I am going to make life difficult for these "terrorists," but of course, I had to do it within legal boundaries. Thankfully, the girl survived the injuries, and I have a photo of her that keeps reminding me what I felt that night. 

The second incident that went really heavy on me was when I failed to get selected in the anti-gang unit. I was devastated because my knowledge about gangs was commendable, but still, I was rejected. However, later I found that my rejection was due to the fact that I am not a "yes person," and the lieutenant in that unit thought I don't have self-control. So, with the passage of time, I was able to get a real chip on my shoulder as proof that my “haters” were wrong. 

These above-mentioned incidents were actually life-changing for me because they had triggered that motivation factor that is necessary for a job and to live your life happily.

I have all the appreciation for the law enforcement agencies for their efforts related to suicide prevention, PTSD awareness, and mental wellness of officers. Still, I believe that the real problem is "trust." Besides, no matter how resourceful your agency is, your employees won’t access your resources if there is no element of trust. 

Peer pressure is another major issue in law enforcement agencies. If you are not accepted by your coworkers or if you show any weakness, things won't be easy for you. Apart from that, officers also feel that sharing their fears with their employers can be a shameful thing to do.

When you don't feel well about yourself, you tend to avoid people around you, and this worsens your emotional state. What's more frustrating is others hardly notice your inner struggle.

What I do in such situations is turn to my "go-to" people. I have people in my circle that give me reassurance, and I call them for different situations. Here are some tips to strengthen your mental health that might help you with these difficulties you are facing: (go to next chapter)