Some thoughts on providing effective mental health critical care for police departments after Line-of-Duty Deaths.
There is no more stressful or emotionally painful event in the professional lives of police officers than a fellow officer's Line-of-Duty Death (LODD). In response to a LODD, crisis teams must apply Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) techniques in a systematic, organized, and responsible manner. Newly formed crisis teams are particularly vulnerable to choosing inappropriate tactics in complex situations. This article provides a strategic framework within which teams can work with police departments after a LODD. It includes cautionary information in connection with problematic situations and mistakes that can occur. Special modifications to the LODD debriefing process are recommended.
Mitchell
Jeffrey T
JT
University of Maryland, Baltimore County, USA.
Levenson
Richard L
RL
D003419:Crisis Intervention; D003422:Critical Care / Q000592:standards*; D006708:Homicide / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000592:standards* / Q000600:supply & distribution*; D016495:Police; D012944:Social Support; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D014481:United States