Episodios

  • Breaking The Silence: Transforming Mental Health in Law Enforcement

    Breaking The Silence: Transforming Mental Health in Law Enforcement
    May 7 2024
    Watch the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ojl-vQVxWrA Summary In this conversation, Mark Bouchard discusses the importance of addressing mental health and stigma within the police force. He shares his personal experience with psychological injury and emphasizes the need for proactive action and individual responsibility in maintaining mental health. Bouchard also highlights the concept of suicide by cop and the challenges faced by officers in making lethal force decisions. He calls for a shift in the understanding and treatment of officers involved in such incidents. In this conversation, the Delta Police Department discusses the importance of educating the public and themselves about the realities of police work. They also explore the psychological challenges faced by officers, including the decision to use lethal force and the impact of suicide by cop incidents. The conversation highlights the need for organizations to address mental health and wellness within their ranks, including providing resources and support for officers. The guests emphasize the importance of creating a culture that reduces stigma around mental health and encourages officers to seek help when needed. Takeaways Police officers need to be taught about their own psychology and humanity to better handle the challenges they face and keep the public safe. Individuals should take proactive action and be active participants in their own mental health. The stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement needs to be reduced to encourage officers to seek help. Lethal force decisions are complex and officers need more training and support to navigate these situations. Society needs to differentiate between non-culpable homicides and murder in cases of suicide by cop. Educating the public and police officers about the realities of police work can lead to better outcomes in incidents and help officers process traumatic experiences. The decision to use lethal force is a difficult one for officers, but they can find solace in knowing they are keeping their community safe. Incident commanders and leaders need to be prepared to make critical decisions, and training in instant command and critical thinking is crucial. Addressing mental health and wellness within police organizations is essential, as officers face higher rates of mental health disorders and suicide. Creating a culture that reduces stigma around mental health and encourages officers to seek help is important for their well-being and the well-being of the organization. Officers can develop healthy coping strategies and find meaning in their experiences to promote post-traumatic growth and resilience. Chapters 00:00 Addressing Mental Health and Stigma 11:41 Proactive Action and Individual Responsibility 24:31 Reducing Stigma and Providing Support 25:26 Educating the Public and Police Officers 28:04 The Weight of the Decision: Using Lethal Force 28:31 Preparing Incident Commanders 29:24 Addressing Mental Health and Wellness 35:38 Reducing Stigma and Encouraging Help-Seeking 43:19 Finding Meaning and Promoting Resilience Guest Biography Mark Bouchard grew up in Delta, and joined the Delta Police Department as a police officer in 2007, after a few years as a volunteer in the Delta Police Reserve Program. Mark worked primarily in patrol and on the Emergency Response Team, prior to his departure in 2020 for the RCMP. Since then, Mark has continued to work patrol and Emergency Response, until his recent promotion into the RCMP'S National Tactical Medicine Program. He has also completed a master's degree in leadership with a focus on police culture and the impacts on police officer mental health. Mark has combined his experiences and research into a book that he published on Amazon in 2023. It is called Setting My Sights on Stigma: Thoughts From an Injured Mind, where he shares what he learned as he recovered from his PTSD diagnosis, with a goal to help other people.
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    50 m
  • Resilience and Strength: Navigating Through Grief

    Resilience and Strength: Navigating Through Grief
    Apr 23 2024
    Watch our video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VWYOjcfSfb4 Summary Constable Peggy MacConnell shares her experience of losing her husband in a tragic accident and how she coped with the grief and trauma. She emphasizes the importance of being your own advocate and doing what feels right for you. Peggy found support from the RCMP and her family, and she prioritized her physical fitness and mental well-being. She returned to work and embraced a routine to maintain a sense of normalcy. Peggy's resilience and positive outlook have helped her navigate through the challenges and continue to live a fulfilling life. Takeaways
    • Be your own advocate and do what feels right for you
    • Surround yourself with a strong support network
    • Prioritize your physical fitness and mental well-being
    • Embrace routine to maintain a sense of normalcy
    • Maintain a positive outlook and take control of your own situation
    Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 08:13 The Organ Donation Process 14:43 Support from Family and the RCMP 26:13 Overcoming Judgment and Staying Resilient 35:44 Returning to Work and Helping Others
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    39 m
  • The Transcendental Power of Meditation for First Responders

    The Transcendental Power of Meditation for First Responders
    Apr 9 2024
    Watch our video on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4cKxWdr Summary In this episode of the Bend Don't Break Podcast, retired police chief Les Sylven and Garry Foster discuss the benefits of Transcendental Meditation (TM) for first responders. They explain that TM is a simple and easy practice that can help reduce stress and build resilience. They share research studies that show the effectiveness of TM in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall well-being. The conversation emphasizes the proactive nature of TM, highlighting its ability to enhance concentration, conflict management, and relationships. They encourage listeners to explore TM as a tool for self-care and mental wellness. Takeaways Taking care of our minds is just as important as taking care of our bodies, especially for first responders who experience significant trauma. Transcendental Meditation (TM) is a simple and effective practice for reducing stress and building resilience. Research has shown that TM is effective in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall well-being. TM is a proactive measure that can improve job performance, relationships, and overall quality of life. Anyone can learn TM, and it can be practiced anywhere, making it a convenient tool for self-care. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:45 The Importance of Taking Care of Our Minds 06:08 Transcendental Meditation: A Simple Tool for Stress Reduction 08:59 Research on Transcendental Meditation and its Benefits 10:52 TM as a Proactive Measure for First Responders 24:02 Improving Job Performance and Relationships through TM Would you like to learn more about Transcendental Meditation? Contact Garry Foster at garryfoster108@gmail.com.
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    35 m
  • A Legacy of Resilience: Honoring Ryan Masales

    A Legacy of Resilience: Honoring Ryan Masales
    Mar 26 2024
    Watch our video on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4axm4Kd Summary In this episode, we remember Ryan Masales, also known as Chopper, who was an undercover operator for the Delta Police Department. Ryan battled brain cancer and shared his inspiring story. He discussed his early career in law enforcement, his involvement in Project Starboard, and his diagnosis of glioblastoma. Despite the challenges he faced, Ryan remained resilient and focused on spending time with his family. He emphasized the importance of realism and cherishing every moment. This conversation with Chopper and his wife Estelize covers a range of topics, including the importance of always having a plan, the role of physical fitness in their lives, Chopper's passion for tattooing, leaving a legacy, managing critical incidents, the power of love and support, finding hope in the face of adversity, the impact of a mentor, and the lessons they have learned. Takeaways Ryan Masales, also known as Chopper, was an undercover operator for the Delta Police Department. He battled brain cancer and shared his inspiring story of resilience. Ryan discussed his early career in law enforcement, his involvement in Project Starboard, and his diagnosis of glioblastoma. He emphasized the importance of realism and cherishing every moment. Always have a plan, whether it's in policing or in life. Physical fitness is important for both mental and physical well-being. Find a passion that allows you to leave a lasting impact. Support from loved ones and the community is crucial in difficult times. Hope is a powerful motivator in the face of adversity. Mentors play a significant role in shaping our lives. Focus on the present and make the most of each day. Chapters 00:00 Remembering Ryan Masales 03:56 Chopper's Early Career 10:19 Project Starboard 29:16 Glioblastoma and Realism 41:36 Managing the Condition 42:04 Always Have a Plan 44:08 The Importance of Working Out 46:19 The Art of Tattooing 50:19 Leaving a Legacy 56:50 Managing Critical Incidents 59:37 The Power of Love and Support 01:05:03 Finding Hope in the Face of Adversity 01:06:03 The Impact of a Mentor 01:19:21 Lessons Learned
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    1 h y 23 m
  • How PTSD Manifested Physically

    How PTSD Manifested Physically
    Mar 14 2024

    Watch our video on YouTube: https://shorturl.at/dBT79

    In this episode of Bend Don't Break, Courtney Luxen from the Calgary Police Service shares her journey of overcoming functional neurological disorder (FND) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She initially joined the police service with a background in sports medicine but fell in love with the idea of becoming a cop after seeing a female officer in action. Courtney experienced various physical symptoms, including uncontrollable blinking, breathing difficulties, and loss of motor control. After a long and challenging recovery process, she returned to work in a part-time capacity and now advocates for mental health and wellness within the police service.

    Takeaways

    Seeking therapy and regular check-ins with a mental health professional are essential for everyone, especially those in high-stress professions like policing.

    Maintaining physical health, practicing gratitude, and incorporating breath work and meditation can contribute to overall well-being and resilience.

    Don't judge others and avoid comparing yourself to others. Each person's journey is unique, and it's important to focus on your own progress.

    Recovery from mental health challenges is a lifelong journey, and it's crucial to have a supportive network of friends, family, and colleagues.

    Never lose hope. Even in the darkest times, there is always the possibility of a better tomorrow.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background

    01:12 Becoming a Police Officer

    04:05 Getting Sick and Seeking Help

    08:25 Diagnosis and Treatment

    10:49 Recovery and Rehabilitation

    27:00 Returning to Work and Advocating for Mental Health

    30:29 Lessons Learned and Advice

    34:45 Final Thoughts and Takeaways
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    35 m
  • Choosing Resilience: A Cop's Perspective on Life with Multiple Sclerosis

    Choosing Resilience: A Cop's Perspective on Life with Multiple Sclerosis
    Feb 7 2024

    In this episode, Chief Neil Dubord speaks with Detective Greg Linkert from the Calgary Police Service, who shares his journey of resilience in the face of adversity after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Greg discusses his career in law enforcement, including his time in specialty sections such as the tactical team and bomb unit. He recounts the symptoms he experienced before his MS diagnosis and the challenges he faced in accepting his condition. Greg emphasizes the importance of communication, support systems, and maintaining a positive mindset. He also shares his involvement in the MS walk and peer support programs.

     

    Takeaways

     

    Appreciate the simple things in life and find joy in everyday experiences.

    Adapt and accept the challenges that come with a diagnosis or disability.

    Maintain open communication with your support system and seek help when needed.

    Choose to define your own story and focus on the possibilities rather than dwelling on the past.

     

    Chapters

     

    00:00 Introduction

    00:15 Appreciating Simple Things

    00:30 Specialty Sections in Police Career

    01:25 Greg Linkert's Career Journey

    03:10 Diagnosis of MS

    04:08 Living with MS

    05:28 Refereeing and Skating Issues

    06:26 Delayed Diagnosis of MS

    07:24 First Real Incident of MS Symptoms

    08:55 Continued Symptoms and Denial

    09:23 Seeking Medical Help

    10:21 36-Hour Adventure at the ER

    11:16 MS Diagnosis Confirmed

    12:44 Medical Professionals Involved

    13:42 Physiatrist and Coping Skills

    14:38 Peer Support and MS Walk

    16:05 Fear and Adapting to MS

    18:05 Teaching Recruit Class and Body Worn Camera

    20:04 Life Now and Physical Limitations

    22:30 Walking Around the Island

    23:56 Support Systems

    25:23 Importance of Communication

    26:53 Choosing Your Story

    28:19 Peer Support and Giving Back

    28:55 Message to Others

    30:25 Summary and Gratitude
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    35 m
  • From Crisis to Control: Mitch Hardington's Resilience Revolution

    From Crisis to Control: Mitch Hardington's Resilience Revolution
    Jan 16 2024

    In this episode, Mitch Hardington from the Calgary Police Service shares his experience with PTSD and his journey to recovery. Mitch recounts a traumatic call where he found a man who had cut his own throat and the impact it had on Mitch's mental health. He emphasizes the importance of seeking help and therapy, including the use of EMDR therapy. Mitch also discusses the concept of post-traumatic growth and how he has found a new identity outside of being a police officer. He shares his reintegration strategy for returning to work and encourages others to live authentically and take control of their own lives.

     

    Takeaways:

    Seeking help and therapy is crucial for dealing with PTSD and other mental health challenges.

    EMDR therapy can be effective in processing traumatic experiences and reducing emotional attachment to the memory.

    Post-traumatic growth is possible, and individuals can use their experiences as an opportunity for personal growth and self-improvement.

    Reintegration into work should be done gradually and with a plan in place to ensure a successful transition.

    Living authentically and finding an identity outside of work is important for overall well-being and resilience.

     

    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction and Community Engagement

    01:01 Mitch's Experience with PTSD

    03:10 Starting Career in Law Enforcement

    04:08 The Traumatic Call

    08:17 Saving the Man's Life

    10:31 Impact on Mental Health

    12:03 Seeking Help and Therapy

    13:58 EMDR Therapy

    21:50 Post-Traumatic Growth

    25:56 Reintegration into Work

    30:56 Living Authentically and Taking Control

    34:19 Final Words and Gratitude

     

     Looking for More Episodes?

    You can find more episodes of Bend Don’t Break on iTunes, Google Play, and most other major podcasting platforms.

     Connect with the Delta Police Department:

    Follow the Delta Police on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

    Visit their website at DeltaPolice.ca.
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    36 m