How to Combat First Responder Burnout

Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. 

Burnout can lead to serious physical and mental health consequences. It can rob you of your joy for the job.

Today I am talking to my friends in law enforcement. I am talking about burnout. And I’m going to offer some suggestions on how you can combat it. This is something that affects the quality of your life both during and after your career.  

Long hours and constant external stresses can leave you feeling burned out. Sometimes the stress comes from inside the agency. Politics. High expectations. Work overload. Unreasonable deadlines. All of this can leave you feeling a bit out of control.

Burnout can lead to serious physical and mental health consequences. It can rob you of your joy for the job. It has the potential to damage your most valued relationships. To beat burnout, you need to refresh yourself both mentally and physically.

First, pay attention to your body and your mind. When you feel tired, get more sleep. Sleep deprivation affects your mood, memory, concentration, immune system, and blood pressure. It contributes to multiple health risks.

Secondly, exercise. I know going to the gym isn’t the first choice for everyone especially after a long shift. Just taking a walk on a regular basis can make a big difference.

And finally, find something to do that takes your mind off the job. Join a softball team, a bowling league, or a book club. Engage with people who are interested in something other than work.

Take care of yourself. Reach the end of your career so you are ready to enjoy the next chapter of your life.

And that’s Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Until next time, Gordon Graham signing off.

Subscribe Now