Be aware of stress, and look after your health

4 November 2020

West Mercia Police Federation chair Sarah Cooper says small lifestyle changes can make a big difference to officers’ mental health and wellbeing.

Sarah was speaking at the start of International Stress Awareness Week, which runs from 2 to 6 November.

The week, which also includes National Stress Awareness Day today (4 November), aims to highlight stress and mental health problems, raise awareness and promote support services.

Police Mutual has produced a factsheet with tips on how to manage your stress such as exercising, organising your time and talking to friends, family or colleagues.

“Police officers often feel the pressure of the roles they undertake and can, of course, be affected by the traumatic incidents they deal with. They are all very busy in their working and home lives and all too often fail to find time for themselves.

“However, it’s better to prevent those stresses and strains from becoming overwhelming, so we’re encouraging members to take time out when they can and look after their health by eating well and exercising, particularly as we are now heading into a second lockdown due to the pandemic.

“The Police Mutual factsheet provides useful tips for managing our stress levels such as identifying your triggers and keeping a daily routine. Just making small changes to our lifestyles can have a positive impact on our wellbeing.

“There’s also the Federation’s Hear ‘Man Up’, Think ‘Man Down’ campaign which aims to encourage officers to look out for each other and emphasise that mental health should be taken just as seriously as physical health.”

Sarah added: “I would like to remind members that the Federation is here for anyone who needs extra help or support, or even just someone to talk to. Please get in touch with the Federation officials or your workplace representatives if you feel you are struggling or if you are worried about a colleague.”