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We’re in this together: Messages to inspire Chicago Police Officers
“You can’t pour from an empty cup
Flexibility, resiliency, adaptability: All are qualities that are innate in police offi- cers, and these are some of the traits that likely propelled you into a law enforcement career. So in the midst of this ongoing COVID-19 crisis, it’s the time to apply those skills in a way that takes care of yourself just as much as you take care of others in your career.
As advised by Dr. Ashley Kuhl Piwowarski, the executive director of outpatient services at Hartgrove Behavioral Health System, it’s vital to remember that you are a whole person who needs mental and physical care and attention both during and after the job.
“I think the biggest piece is remembering the kinds of things that got them in- volved in their job in the first place,” Piwowarski said. “That innate sense of wanting to protect the welfare of others, having a personality and approach to the world that is adaptable, resilient and oriented toward protecting others.”
For those on the front lines, Piwowarski relayed that it’s important to focus on what is in your control — simple breathing is one way to fight through strain. Daisy Gomez, the educational clinical services coordinator at Hartgrove, shared that tacti- cal breathing exercises help control situations and act as a great way to decompress either during or following stressful shifts. Mindfulness — taking a couple seconds during shifts to remind yourself that you’re safe—is another tactic.
The adage that “you can’t pour from an empty cup” rings true throughout these tough times. Making sure that you carve out at least a couple moments a day to invest in yourself and put yourself first is imperative. As Gomez recommends, don’t overlook your own symptoms. Listen to what your body is saying to you.
Hartgrove Behavioral Health System
“ Time to reconnect
Now is the time to take time for yourself, even if it is for five minutes. Leave all of your mobile devices at home, including earbuds. A simple walk around the block or jog around the park can clear the mind like nothing else.
Try to stick to a routine. This could mean continuing to shave every day, show- ering before bed, doing 10 push-ups when you wake up or going to the grocery store on Saturday morning. Try not to let this temporary setback and shift in the way we do things in our ordinary lives have an impact on your long-term routine. Remember that this is only temporary.
Use this period as a time for spring cleaning and giving clothing that’s no lon- ger needed to Goodwill. Re-evaluate your monthly expenses, and cut unnecessary costs (coffee drinks, cable packages, online subscriptions). Make to-do lists and rewrite them each day as goals are accomplished.
And stay positive. Reach out to loved ones. Mend fences. Heal old wounds. This is a great time to reconnect with people.
Jonathan Schatz, JD/LLM
Law office of Jonathan N. Schatz
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