I’m a Corrections Officer, but I Feel Like a Prisoner

A corrections officer is a first responder occupation in every sense of the words. It’s a job that is characterized by the stigma of low status, high stress, and burnout. With high rates of chronic job-related stress, it’s easy to see how corrections officers can feel as trapped as the prisoners they guard. However, when […]

Stress As a Corrections Officer

You might be a corrections officer if. Jeff Foxworthy poked fun at rednecks, jabbing at nearly every occupation along the way, including stressful occupations like corrections officers. High wages, great benefits, and early retirement are benefits that attract workers to the job—one that comes with immense emotional stressors.   The United States Department of Labor[…..]

Compassion Fatigue: Are First Responders At Risk?

“Compassion fatigue” is a term that may be unfamiliar to some, but is rapidly becoming a recognized issue in our society.  One day, fire culture may see compassion fatigue listed and treated as a mental hazard along with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.  Indeed, the two are often parallel .  But what is compassion fatigue?  […..]