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Is a Fellow Police Officer Facing Alcoholism? Don’t Ignore These 5 Signs

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if someone on the job is struggling with an alcohol use disorder, there is no way to avoid the negative impact it can have on the entire department.

Not only is the safety of all in jeopardy, but choices made in uniform while under the influence or in recovery from a binge can harm the already tense relationship between officers and the community.

Some signs that an alcohol use disorder may be an issue for your coworker include:

  1. Safety issues on the job: Struggling with making solid calls under pressure, showing up late or disappearing with no accountability, mismanaging equipment, flubbing the paperwork or blowing it off entirely — when these kind of issues start happening and people’s safety is threatened as a result, it can be a worrisome first indication that a serious problem is growing.
  2. Drinking or being under the influence on the job: There is no valid reason for being under the influence while on shift or for using or drinking while on the job. If this is happening, it needs to be addressed immediately.
  3. Drinking too much on holidays: St. Patrick’s Day happens in March, and it is common practice for police officers to head out to the bars or otherwise overindulge in celebration of the day. However, if drinking heavily on St. Patrick’s Day is just an excuse for what also happens on any given Monday or Saturday afternoon, it can be a sign of an ongoing problem.
  4. Relationship difficulties: It is not easy to be married to a police officer, and it is not easy for a police officer to manage the responsibilities of work and home. Both require an incredible amount of attention and effort, and when trauma plays a role, it can complicate matters in both places. Difficulties at home, when coupled with other issues related to alcohol or drugs, can be a sign of a deeper problem.
  5. Problems with coworkers: Difficulties keeping up with requirements, fights with coworkers, inability to manage civilians on calls, and problems with a supervisor — all these can add up to deadly mistakes. When it seems to be a chronic problem, it can indicate an underlying issue with untreated mental health disorders and substance abuse.

Is someone in your department in need of support?

Heed the Warnings

If a police officer you work with is exhibiting signs of alcoholism, do not stand idly by. Accident on the job, divorce, suicide, and deadly health problems are also possibilities without treatment, and at American Addiction Centers, we can help. Our First Responder Lifeline Program provides law enforcement officers and other first responders with:

  • Treatment plans that are focused on first responders
  • A full evaluation and assessment for trauma-related disorders like PTSD
  • Access to research-based treatment services that have proven to be effective in helping police officers overcome trauma and co-occurring substance use disorders
  • Family therapy and support
  • EAP/MAP interaction
  • Reintegration assistance

Find out more about how you can help your coworker connect with alcohol addiction treatment services today. Call American Addiction Centers now at 855-997-6542.

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