Breaking the Stigma

Over the course of my career, I have worked countless calls for service, dealing with community members in crisis. Mental illness comes in many forms and oftentimes is not easily identified or recognized, let alone correctly diagnosed. For a street cop who is busy going from one call to the next, sometimes it can be easy to overlook or miss clues that are resting right at the end of our noses if only we took the time to see. Easier said than done.

Crisis intervention training was a game-changer for policing. It equipped officers with new options for managing people in crisis through training and education. No equipment is needed; it just takes time, an open mind, and a willingness to try something novel. It is sometimes hard to believe this training is over twenty years old, and yet many veteran police officers still need to receive it. But that story is for another time.

Recently, a unique opportunity presented itself to me. The chance to talk with Major General Gregg Martin, United States Army retired. It is not every day we have the opportunity to rub shoulders, or in this case, microphones, with high-ranking military leaders, so I seized the moment. I was not disappointed, and I don't think you will be either.

In this episode of #TheCoptimizerPodcast, I was honored to have Maj. Gen. Martin share his deeply personal and inspiring journey through bipolar disorder. His story is not just about the battles fought on the field but also about confronting the internal battles of mental illness. This conversation is especially relevant to law enforcement officers and leaders because we draw parallels to the high-stress, high-stakes environments officers navigate, which often mirror the pressures faced in military careers.

In all those years working the street and interacting with people in crisis, I never considered that one of my partners might be struggling with this problem. Sure, we deal with many officers who suffer from anxiety and depression, but being Bipolar was not something that even crossed my mind. What a personal failure on my part. In any case, I can't turn back the clock, but I can share some valuable insights that I gained through this conversation. Here are some of the key insights gleaned from this enlightening conversation.

Key Insights:

• End the Stigma: Major General Martin's openness about his bipolar disorder serves as a powerful call to action to reduce stigma and promote recovery. It's crucial for leaders in all sectors, including law enforcement, to foster an environment where mental health discussions are normalized.
• Early Recognition and Action: Identifying symptoms early and seeking medical help can transform lives. For those in high-pressure jobs, acknowledging the need for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• The Power of Support: Recovery is a team effort. The role of family, friends, and professionals in Major General Martin's journey underscores the importance of a supportive community in overcoming mental illness.
• Holistic Approach to Recovery: Medication, therapy, and healthful living are foundational, but recovery also requires purpose, perseverance, and presence. These elements are vital for anyone, especially those in demanding roles.
• Leadership Responsibility: Leaders must openly discuss mental health, provide education, and exemplify stigma reduction. Silence is not an option; it only serves to perpetuate the problem.
• Workforce Accommodations: Making reasonable accommodations for those with mental health issues is the right thing to do and benefits the organization by retaining valuable talent.
• Importance of Self-Care: Sleep, diet, exercise, and work-life balance are essential for mental health. These basics are often overlooked in high-stress professions but are critical for long-term well-being.
• Mindfulness Practices: Techniques like yoga and breathing exercises can enhance mental well-being, offering tools for managing stress that are accessible to everyone, including those in law enforcement.
• Early Education: Just as we teach physical health from a young age, mental health education should start early to build a foundation of understanding and compassion.
• Leveraging Resources: Major General Martin's book, among other resources, provides valuable insights into living with and managing mental illness, offering hope and guidance to others.

The Call to Action:

Major General Gregg Martin's courage and commitment to mental health awareness are inspirational. By breaking the stigma, promoting early intervention, and providing comprehensive support, we can create safer, healthier environments on the streets and in the squad room for everyone, especially those who serve to protect us.

?? Listen to the entire conversation on our podcast and join us in prioritizing mental health in every community. Also, please consider purchasing his book, The BiPolar General.

Together, we can raise awareness and change lives for the better! #MentalHealthAwareness #Leadership #LawEnforcement #EndTheStigma #TheBipolarGeneral