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We’re in this together: Messages to inspire Chicago Police Officers
Words of Encouragement
Chicago Lodge 7 Magazine sponsors offer messages to praise Chicago Police Officers for stepping up during these challenging times
While many of us are staying home during this trying time, first re-
sponders and healthcare providers do not have that ability. In fact, your The very first use of force is police presence, but did you know that police presence is also giving hours have increased. civilians a sense of safety and reducing their stress during the COVID-19 pandemic? Be aware that the
You never stop working
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Be proud of yourselves
As a police psychologist, I listen to the stressors you are experienc- mere fact of you being in uniform patrolling and walking around is reducing the stress for others and,
ing during the COVID-19 crisis. Many of you strip down before entering again, displays your bravery and selflessness for this job. Be proud of yourselves!
your homes, trying your best not to bring risk to your families. Most of To take care of yourself emotionally, be aware of your feelings and validate or express them appropri-
your shift days have been extended and your days off canceled. You are ately, as research has shown that avoiding or suppressing them leads to deeper negative emotions and
tired, you are worried, and yet, you never stop working.
I want you to know, that even when we can’t see you, we know you are always there. You always show up. You never stop serving as you continue to fulfill your promise to protect and serve. We know, and we
thank you.
Have faith that the storm you are in the midst of will pass. Have
hope in your ability to remain healthy in body, mind and spirit. Believe that there is light ahead of you. Trust yourself and that which is greater than us.
Ask yourself what positive belief you can cling to that will inspire you through this challenging time. Remember, you touch lives in posi- tive ways. You keep your promise as you continue to move in the midst of the storm, you continue to move toward danger. You save lives. You never stop working...
Isaiah 6:8: “And I hear the voice of the Lord, saying, “Who shall I send? And who will go for us? And I said, “’Here am I. Send me.’”
Thank you. Be safe.
Robin Kroll
Brave Police & Public Safety Wellness Center
“Nelson Mandela once said, “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”
This statement could not be more pertinent in our lives than at this moment. It appears that every generation will come to face an extraordinary occurrence. In that moment, it will take unprecedented courage to rise above the storm and carry our civilization onward so that the next generation will thrive.
In this moment, we have fallen not because of war, greed or glory. In this moment, we have fallen not due to differing societal norms and expectations that
We will rise.
Stay safe; stay healthy.
long-term stress. Allow yourself and others to have emotions, and try to address emotions with curiosity rather than negative judgment.
Here are some suggestions to help cope with the additional stressors of COVID-19:
• Avoid excess. Avoid too much caffeine, sugar, alcohol, screen time, etc. Try to find moderation. It is easy to binge-watch TV, but find other activities to do around the house such as board
games, spring cleaning, reorganizing, gardening, writing, art or music.
• Socialize virtually and at home. Ensure that you are contacting family and friends through different means, including social media platforms for those who are distant. Humans are social animals, so keep connecting with others to avoid feeling lonely. Play card or board games,
make a pizza or other food together, sing karaoke.
• Form a new routine. You likely will have to develop a new routine for yourself and your loved
ones. Ensure that you are making your new routine structured and predictable, as this will help
with many of the uncertainties and stress. Routines are especially helpful for children.
• Sleep. Prioritize your sleep and, when possible, stick to a consistent wake and sleep schedule. Avoid caffeine eight hours prior to bed. Avoid electronics one hour before bed. Read a book in
paper form.
• Have fun. Watch comedies, go to www.sunnyskyz.com or www.goodnewsnetwork.com for
positive and inspiring stories, reminisce about the old times with someone, look at old pictures.
Carrie Steiner, Psy.D.
First Responders Wellness Center
We will rise
polarize our civilization into our political corners.
In this moment, the world is now one. It is in this moment that we rise as a society. Doctors, nurses and other medical professionals are rising to treat those
that are ill. Researchers are rising to the challenge of locating, creating and initiating a cure. Families are rising to assist our school systems and teachers in the continual education of our children. Everyday citizens are rising to assist in any way possible during this global crisis. The world is rising together.
It is in this moment that our profession shall rise. As with every recent event in our nation’s history, law enforcement across the country will do that which is necessary to maintain a sense of calm and instill a feeling of security within our communities. It is at this time that we must hold the line between chaos and the new norm while we support those on the front lines as they battle this common enemy. My brothers and sisters, it is in this moment that our society, and the world, will rise from this and be stronger than ever before.
Jim Harris
J. Harris Academy of Police Training
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