The job of Law Enforcement comes with the potential trauma and stress that can lead into substance use disorder. Fortunately, there are resources available to law enforcement officers who want to overcome addiction or mental health issues.
Substance Use and Addiction Among First Responders
Excessive alcohol use by police officers has been the subject of targeted research and analysis in recent years. The data developed from these endeavors reveal that the longer a person is on a police force, the more likely he or she will have what is described as an “issue” with excessive drinking.
Rookie police officers are thought to have a very low rate of excessive drinking. After two years on the force, however, an estimated 27% of police officers are believed to use alcohol excessively. Just over 35% of police officers are believed to use alcohol excessively after four years on the force.
The rate of substance use disorder and addiction for police officers is significantly higher than the public at large. Between 20% to 30% of police officers are estimated to have substance use disorder or addiction.
Risk Factors for Law Enforcement
While in the line of duty, law enforcement officers are susceptible to incurring injury on the job. This can lead to being subscribed addictive opioids to relieve pain. This can lead to the becoming dependent and addicted to these medications.
Other risk factors for substance use among law enforcement include:
- Emotional Stress
- Trauma from on-duty violence
- Insomnia
- Separated from loved ones for long periods of time
- Increased heart rate, headaches, muscle tension and tremors
Treatment Options for Law Enforcement
There are many treatment options available to law enforcement officers battling substance use disorder or addiction.
Getting the Help You Need
If you’re a law enforcement officer who has decided to enter into a residential treatment program, the professionals at the Granite Recovery Centers are available to discuss your options 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks a year. With professional help, you could finally overcome substance use disorder.