#114 Mental Health and Law Enforcement: Breaking the Stigma with Dr. Jean Kanokogi

In this episode of "Mental Health Today," Dr. Jean Kanokogi, a seasoned law enforcement professional and mental health advocate, joins host Ken Stearns for a candid and insightful conversation. With over 25 years of experience in criminal investigations and extensive involvement in mental health advocacy, Dr. Kanokogi brings a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience to the discussion.

The conversation delves deep into the intersection of mental health and law enforcement, shedding light on the often overlooked struggles faced by those in the field. Dr. Kanokogi emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health issues within the law enforcement community, highlighting the significant impact it can have on individuals' well-being and job performance.

One of the key points discussed is the stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement. Dr. Kanokogi shares how historically, there has been a reluctance to acknowledge and address mental health issues within the profession, with individuals often encouraged to "suck it up" and soldier on. However, she emphasizes that this mindset is not only detrimental to individual officers but also poses risks to public safety.

Dr. Kanokogi provides valuable insights into the psychological toll of law enforcement work, particularly in high-stress situations like terrorist attacks and natural disasters. She discusses how the accumulation of trauma over time can lead to significant mental health challenges, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Moreover, she highlights the impact of unresolved childhood trauma on first responders, compounding the challenges they face in managing their mental health.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Kanokogi advocates for destigmatizing mental health issues and promoting access to resources and support for law enforcement professionals. She discusses the importance of resilience tools and treatment modalities in helping officers cope with the demands of their job and manage the psychological effects of trauma.

The episode also touches on Dr. Kanokogi's advocacy work, including her involvement in legislative efforts to support mental health initiatives for law enforcement. She highlights the progress being made in recognizing and addressing mental health concerns within the field, citing bipartisan efforts to implement policies and programs aimed at supporting officers' well-being.

In closing, Dr. Kanokogi leaves listeners with a powerful message of resilience and compassion. She encourages individuals to prioritize their mental health and reach out for support when needed, emphasizing the importance of self-care and kindness towards oneself and others. Overall, the episode serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of addressing mental health in law enforcement and the ongoing work needed to support those who serve and protect our communities.

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Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.