Serving in Corrections Can Take an Emotional and Psychological Toll
That's because the realities of the job can be much more intense than in other professions. As a corrections officer, it's not unusual to be dealing with:
- the threat of violence
- actual violence
- manipulative or demanding inmates
- critical incidents (escapes, for example)
- lots of overtime and/or shift work
- inmate overcrowding
- competition among staff for the best assignments
- feeling isolated or misunderstood by family, friends and the public.
The Buildup of Duty-Related Stress Can Affect Anyone
Maybe you've begun to notice:
- You're just not yourself.
- A certain critical incident plays over in your mind.
- You feel exhausted and on edge--but somehow you can't seem to relax.
- A nagging injury has got you feeling depressed.
- The job is affecting your marriage and home life.
- You spend less and less time with friends and loved ones
- You're drinking too much and/or abusing prescription or other drugs.