Being a corrections officer is an extremely stressful job. The possibility of being injured while on the job is ever-present. For instance, on July 4, 2015, a convicted murderer serving 46 years assaulted an officer, grabbed the officer’s baton, and injured other officers with the baton while those officers were trying to subdue him.
In addition to physical injury, corrections officers undergo and can suffer effects from mental injuries. The inherent stressors of the job, including the threat of physical injury, assaults with bodily fluids, and the mental toughness required on a daily basis, take their toll on an officer’s mental and emotional health.
Common Signs of Stress
Stress can affect a person physically. According to the American Institute of Stress, the following are some common signs of stress:
- Grinding of teeth;
- Cold or sweaty hands or feet;
- Forgetfulness, disorientation, confusion;
- Insomnia, nightmares, or trouble sleeping;
- Excess gas (belching or flatulence);
- Heartburn, stomach pain, or nausea;
- Chest pain or palpitations;
- Frequent urination;
- Difficulty breathing, frequent sighing;
- Increased lying or excuses to cover up poor work;
- Increased inability to communicate or share feelings;
- Social withdrawal and isolation; and
- Excessive defensiveness or suspiciousness.
Getting Help with Stress
If you think stress from work is affecting your ability to work or function, there are different types of assistance available to you.
The New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association, Inc. (NYSCOPBA) has a program called “Helping Hand.” This program connects volunteer officers with officers who require assistance. The aid available ranges from phone support, to delivering food and supplies, and providing manual labor.
In addition, New York State offers a program called “Work-Life Services” to provide state employees, including corrections officers, with assistance related to work-life balance, health and medical benefits, and retirement planning.
Stress as a Basis for a Workers’ Compensation Claim
In New York, stress ma
