This is an email sent to me by a former correctional officer, who gave me permission to share it with others. It is very sobering as it raises the issue of responsibility for our own well-being. Read it and remember that you do have choices. If you don’t already, start taking care of your physical, psychological and spiritual needs actively and consistently. Nobody else can do it for you.
The gate slams behind you as you enter the prison. You take a deep breath as you prepare for the day ahead. Let the games begin!
Each day becomes a day of survival spiritually, mentally, physically, and emotionally. The money is good. The job provides “security”(boy, isn’t that a play on words!).
But for the money and security there is a heavy price to pay for many. Their world becomes no different than that of the prisoners—hopeless, worrisome, painful, fearful. Many officers say “I do my eight and skate,” but is that statement really true?
Read more…
ctudor Corrections Fatigue corrections officers, morale, self-care, stress
For all of you who feel all alone or who are doing Christmas away from loved ones, please remember that Desert Waters (www.desertwaters.com) volunteers are here for you. Write us at youvent@desertwaters.com or call 866-YOU-VENT. (BTW, dialing *67 before the number blocks your phone number on Caller ID systems.) Reach out & connect. We do care & want to be of assistance to you in any way we can.
ctudor Uncategorized
It is not news to you that, for a multitude of reasons, your personal relationships often suffer because of your job. As the holidays approach, the most obvious example is your having to work on Christmas or New Year’s Day. Or perhaps you had to work on Thanksgiving Day. Your loved ones might deal with your absences from family events by “getting used” to gathering and celebrating without you.
This does not reduce the fact that they miss you and that you miss out on special moments. Read more…
ctudor family family
The writer of this email captures beautifully an aspect of Corrections Fatigue, the gradual negative changes in correctional staff due to the nature of their work environment. It is also noteworthy to me that this Officer clearly has a servant’s heart in spite of everything else going on in his life. He went out of his way to find the owner of the lost purse and to deliver it to her. Way to go!
I thought I would share a recent experience with you which is indicative of the way people become when working in Corrections.
The other night at work I noticed an inmate duress alarm (a red light that glows on a control panel) shortly after my shift had started. Read more…
ctudor Corrections Fatigue corrections officers, professionalism
The following quotes grabbed me the past few days.
As usual, the best is simple, and the wisdom of the ages is upside down (or right side up). So here they are! Read more…
ctudor Sanity Tips happiness, Leadership
Research, personal experience and history testify that one of the most effective ways to weather tough times and stay sane is to have good relationships. Good relationships form a safety net under us. They are a refuge, a place to refuel, a way to give and to receive, and a means to be held accountable.
Corrections work only too often takes its toll on relationships, as weary staff tend to lash out in anger or withdraw in reaction to even minor irritations. Read more…
ctudor Sanity Tips family, happiness
