When people are struggling, it's hard to ask for help. As an officer or spouse in law enforcement, we often think we need to be strong, which makes asking for help even harder. As officers climb the ranks, asking for assistance can be almost nonexistent. There tends to be a focus on making sure that those you supervise, or support are okay and ultimately, you put your emotions and feelings aside.  

As departments and the law enforcement community continue to admit that there are many struggles with mental health, there needs to be a shift in leadership to admit they are human and also struggle.   

This doesn’t need to be an announcement of struggles, but rather a conversation with those that matter the most and can support you, including spouses. How do leaders and command staff allow themselves to become more human and retain authority and the confidence of their troops?   

Jonni Redick, a former assistant chief with the California Highway Patrol, shares her story as a leader and an officer of 29 years and her call to action to current law enforcement leaders.

 

 Survival Guide to Law Enforcement Personnel Preparation and Black, White, and Blue, Surviving the Sifting.  

Leadership and Promotional Development - JLConsulting Solutions