Mental Health Spotlight: Resilience and Well-Being in Law Enforcement
Monthly Mental Health Spotlight: Sergeant McCants
Leading by Example: A Law Enforcement Officer’s Journey Through Mental Health
Welcome to the Monthly Mental Health Spotlight. Each month, I highlight everyday people from different walks of life, professions, and cultural backgrounds to showcase the all-encompassing nature of mental health. Mental health affects everyone, regardless of age, background, or experience, and these spotlights celebrate the resilience, awareness, and growth of those navigating their own recovery journeys. Please join me each month as I share the stories of individuals making mental health a priority and inspiring others through their openness and courage.
This month, I’m honored to feature Sergeant McCants, a law enforcement professional who shares his perspective on mental health, stress, and recovery while serving in a high-pressure environment. His insights remind us that even those trained to protect and help others need care, support, and strategies to maintain their own well-being.
Q1: In your experience, how has working in law enforcement shaped your understanding of mental health, both in yourself and in the people you serve?
Sergeant McCants:
Before working in law enforcement, mental health was not something I paid much attention to, for one reason or another, possibly because it was not as widely discussed as it is today. Since entering law enforcement, I now approach nearly every interaction with the understanding that it could involve a mental-health component. You truly never know what someone is dealing with internally, and I make a conscious effort to understand why situations are unfolding the way they are. Many times, individuals act out because they are struggling mentally and do not know how to cope with what they are experiencing.
I have also become much more aware of my own mental state. I regularly check in with myself when I experience strong emotions because, in most cases, something has affected me mentally. I have learned the importance of gathering myself, so I do not allow my internal struggles to escalate or negatively impact a situation. There have been days when I have had challenges at home, and I am intentional about leaving those issues there before coming into work, because if I do not, they can spill over into my job.
Q2: Law-enforcement roles often involve exposure to high-stress situations. How do you recognize when stress is affecting you, and what strategies or supports help you stay grounded?
Sergeant McCants:
When I find myself constantly replaying an incident in my head, I know it is affecting me. In law enforcement, we are often our own harshest critics. We replay split-second decisions and question what we could have done differently. We want to be the hero and save everyone, but that is not always possible. When we feel like we have let someone down, that sense of responsibility can turn into stress. Constantly replaying an incident and asking “what if” is usually a clear sign that it is weighing on you.
Talking with someone who has law enforcement experience is extremely helpful. It provides perspective, clarity, and an opportunity to decompress, especially when someone affirms that they would have handled the situation similarly. Additionally, speaking with my therapist has been incredibly beneficial. Having an unbiased, professional perspective helps me process incidents in a healthy way.
Q3: What would you say is the most misunderstood part of the mental and emotional impact police work has on officers?
Sergeant McCants:
One of the most misunderstood aspects is why officers are often reluctant to speak up when they are struggling. From the outside, people may say, “Why didn’t they just talk to someone?” But it is different when you spend your career helping everyone else with their problems while struggling to help yourself.
There is also a very real fear of potentially losing one’s badge and firearm. Many officers worry that being honest about their struggles could cost them their careers. People often do not understand how devastating that possibility can be to someone who has sacrificed so much of themselves for the job.
Q4: Recovery looks different for everyone. What does mental health recovery look like for you while working in a profession that requires constant alertness?
Sergeant McCants:
For me, recovery often starts with taking my mind off whatever is bothering me at the moment so I can refocus. Music, comedy, and helping others allow me to mentally reset and regain balance. I have learned that the more I fixate on a problem, the larger it becomes in my mind, so intentionally shifting my focus is important.
Physical exercise also plays a major role in my recovery. A good workout helps me clear my head, release stress, and return to work mentally sharper and more grounded.
Q5: If you could offer one piece of advice to other officers or anyone in a helping profession who may be struggling with burnout, trauma exposure, or dissociation, what would it be?
Sergeant McCants:
Communication and honesty are key. Everyone struggles at some point. Do not convince yourself that you are alone. Talk to someone, because they may be able to help you navigate what you are going through.
Most importantly, learn to be honest about your struggles. In law enforcement, especially, we tend to internalize everything and tell others we are “fine” when we are not. Learning to be honest with yourself and with others can be a powerful and necessary part of the healing process.
Stay Connected
Want to keep up with Sergeant McCants’ work and insights? You can connect with him on LinkedIn and learn more here.
Closing Reflection
Sergeant McCants’ words remind us that mental health is universal, even in professions defined by strength and resilience. Awareness, self-care, and honest communication are not signs of weakness; they are acts of courage. Join me next month as we continue the Monthly Mental Health Spotlight, sharing the stories of individuals navigating recovery and inspiring others through their experiences.
A Note on Support
While this blog is reflective and research-informed, it is not a substitute for professional mental health care. If you are experiencing a crisis or need support, please contact a qualified mental health professional or your local services. Your well-being is the priority, and professional guidance is an essential part of any recovery journey.
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