Episode 015

FREE Critical Incident Recovery Protocol

Dale Pritchett's story isn't some dramatic rescue or heroic takedown—it's about the real weight we carry after a justified shoot. This episode dives into the nitty-gritty of how even a clean shoot can haunt us long after the scene is cleared. Dale’s been on patrol for 28 years, yet he's still replaying a call from three years ago, and he's not alone in this struggle. We’re talking about the hidden toll of our job and the struggle to find real support when you're miles away from the nearest peer team. If you’re a deputy feeling the strain but unsure how to deal, this episode's got the goods to help you build resilience before it becomes a crisis.

Dale Pritchett's experience as a deputy shines a light on a critical issue many officers face but rarely talk about. After his involvement in a shooting, Dale found himself replaying the incident in his mind, struggling with sleepless nights and a sense of unease that affected his daily life. His story is a stark reminder that even when we do everything right, the psychological impact can linger. This episode delves into the importance of building resilience skills before they’re needed, emphasizing that we can’t wait until we’re overwhelmed to seek help. We discuss the challenges of being a law enforcement officer in rural areas, where support systems are often far away and the culture can discourage vulnerability. Dale's journey of silently carrying his weight is common among officers, and it highlights the need for a shift in how we approach mental health in law enforcement. Instead of viewing resilience skills as therapy, we frame them as essential tools for operational readiness. Throughout the conversation, we share actionable insights and highlight the significance of peer support among officers. Dale's story helps reinforce that recognition of our struggles is just the beginning. We need to foster an environment where officers can openly discuss these issues without fear of judgment. This episode is not just about Dale; it's about all of us in law enforcement learning to prepare and support each other in managing the unique stresses of the job.

Takeaways:

1. When you're on a call and things go sideways, it's normal to replay that scene in your head for years—you're not alone in that.
2. Just because you legally did everything right doesn't mean you're fine—mental scars don’t have a statute of limitations.
3. Building resilience isn't about therapy; it's about giving you the tools to handle what comes next—before it hits you.
4. Peer support is about cops helping cops—no long drives, no waiting for a psychologist to show up, just real talk and real tools.

FREE Critical Incident Recovery Protocol

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Get Your Critical Incident Recovery Protocol HERE!

Click the link here and get your copy of the Critical Incident Recovery Protocol. Don't worry, it's completely FREE.

FREE Critical Incident Recovery Protocol