Substance Use and Abuse and the Law Enforcement Professional
By Peter J. Killeen, Ed.D.
The landscape of substance use, abuse, and treatment within law enforcement is continuously changing. Laws are frequently updated, and the regulations governing the general public often do not apply to law enforcement professionals. In this article, I will provide key insights to enhance your understanding of substance use and abuse in this context.
Among police officers, PTS (Post-Traumatic Stress) is associated with substance-related disorders such as alcohol use disorder. Substance abuse can not only worsen mental health symptoms in officers, but it may also increase suicide risk.
High-stress careers, particularly those involving life-and-death situations such as those faced by first responders, are closely linked to substance use. The ongoing pressure and trauma experienced in these roles can lead to Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS) if not properly addressed, which in turn raises the likelihood of self-medication and the development of co-occurring disorders, such as addiction. Unfortunately, this issue is widespread, with surveys showing that about 30% of first responders may be struggling with substance use disorders.
A study published in the American Journal of Addiction found that 7.8% of police officers met the criteria for lifetime alcohol misuse or dependence. Additionally, 18.1% of male officers experienced negative consequences due to alcohol use, while 15.8% of female officers reported similar adverse events. These figures indicate a notably high incidence of alcohol-related issues among police officers.
Why Is Addiction a Risk for Law Enforcement?
Law enforcement officers encounter a distinct set of challenges, including high-stress scenarios, exposure to trauma, and a culture that may discourage seeking assistance. Additionally, they face internal issues within their departments, negative responses from the community, and personal challenges related to their jobs, such as marital and family conflicts. These everyday stressors can create a challenging environment, and combined with easy access to substances for self-medication, they increase the risk of substance use and addiction in this demanding field.
Short bursts of violence when officers are "called out for a job" are frequently followed by extended, tedious stretches of waiting and handling paperwork. During this downtime, officers may engage in games, jokes, patrols, or training. Yet, every officer's mind lingers with the awareness that another call could come at any time, potentially altering their reality. When that call arrives, it can lead to significant changes in the officer's life, often not for the better.
Law enforcement officers receive extensive training to stay calm and make quick decisions in high-pressure situations, often requiring them to control their emotions to ensure safety and act effectively. While this emotional regulation is crucial for their roles, it can also impede their ability to process trauma and stress. As a result, some officers may turn to unhealthy coping strategies, such as alcohol. Compounding the issue, the culture within law enforcement that promotes emotional restraint can create barriers to seeking help and support from colleagues.
Ways Officers May Cope with The Stress and Pressure of the Job
Officers under the intense pressures of their job often find ways to cope with stress. Some adopt a tough exterior to shield themselves from emotional vulnerability and connection. While this approach might help them avoid unwanted questions, it can ultimately result in isolation and worsen their internal struggles. Others may seek temporary relief from feelings of hyperarousal and emotional distress by turning to substances such as alcohol, marijuana, prescription painkillers, benzodiazepines, and opioids.
However, these substances only offer temporary relief and may contribute to dependence and addiction, which further exacerbates the challenges faced by officers. Law enforcement is distinct because of its occupational culture and the frequent exposure to stressors and trauma. These factors can heighten the likelihood of unhealthy behaviors, like excessive alcohol consumption, as officers seek a momentary escape from work-related stresses.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), first responders are notably at risk for emotional distress that may lead to substance abuse. The first responders who are most vulnerable include those who:
Have experienced life-threatening situations.
Have been separated from loved ones for long periods.
Have had deployments that caused disruptions in their home life or job.
Have been traumatized by some exposure to difficult stories of loss.
Substance Misuse
Over time, substance misuse can lead to dependency, a condition referred to as "substance use disorder." A key feature of this disorder is denial; many individuals struggle with issues at work, home, or within their families. They may become withdrawn, experience depression, feel agitated, and exhibit unpredictable behavior. Additionally, some face financial and legal challenges due to their substance use. Despite these negative repercussions, many people do not recognize the connection between their problems and their substance abuse.
One of the most critical steps in addressing substance abuse is for the officer to recognize, admit, and accept that they have a problem. Our current societal climate has created confusion around this issue. With the legalization of marijuana in many states, law enforcement professionals find themselves in a challenging position. Questions like "Can we smoke?" or "Can we use gummies?" are common. The answer is clear. PBA attorney John McCausland has outlined what is permissible and what is not in his article, providing explicit guidance.
Please remember that if you report a substance use issue and seek help, you will receive support and treatment. However, if you are tested and the results come back positive without prior self-reporting, you will face a suspension without pay, which may lead to termination. If you believe you have a problem with alcohol or drugs, please reach out to me, Peter Killeen, your PBA Stress Counselor. I’m here to assist you in finding the appropriate help. Remember, asking for help is a significant step toward getting your life back on track. There is no shame in struggling with chemical dependency; the PBA is committed to helping and supporting you through this process.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—make the call!
