On Vets And Badges this conversation explores the challenges faced by law enforcement officers, particularly in relation to mental health, trauma, and the emotional toll of their work. Officer Milton Montes de Oca shares his career journey to becoming a mental health therapist for the City of Sweetwater PD, emphasizing the importance of building trust within the police community and addressing the stigma surrounding mental health. The discussion also highlights the impact of losing colleagues in the line of duty and the necessity of support systems for officers dealing with trauma and grief.

Chapters

00:00 - The Reality of Law Enforcement Danger

03:07 - Transitioning from Officer to Mental Health Therapist

05:59 - Building Trust in Law Enforcement

08:51 - The Impact of Trauma on Officers

12:01 - Coping Mechanisms and Risky Behaviors

15:00 - The Importance of Support Systems

17:55 - Navigating Identity as a Police Officer

21:10 - Advice for First Responders in Crisis

24:05 - The Emotional Toll of Losing a Colleague

26:53 - Maintaining Professionalism Amidst Grief

29:47 - The Role of Law Enforcement in Society

33:07 - Leading by Example in Law Enforcement

Takeaways:

- Police work involves inherent danger and risks.

- The loss of an officer affects the entire community.

- Transitioning from officer to therapist can provide valuable insights.

- Building trust in law enforcement is crucial for mental health support.

- Officers often struggle with their identity outside of work.

- Trauma can lead to risky behaviors if not addressed.

- Support systems are essential for coping with stress and trauma.

- It's important for officers to seek help without stigma.

- The emotional impact of losing a colleague is profound.

- Law enforcement's role is to enforce the law, not to punish.

#videopodcast

#mentalhealth

#supportsystem

Source, B-Roll: WPLG

https://youtu.be/vantg50WJzk?si=myXk1AK06bKqpa6h

Recorded at Miami's Community News studios:https://CommunityNewspapers.com

About Vets And Badges Host:

Robert Asencio is a retired police Captain, former Florida State Representative, US Army Veteran who served as a member of the Special Operations community with over 34 years of public service experience.

Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders.

For more visit:

https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/[email protected] - 2025