1010CCJ_Module_12_Learning_Video_3

Mental Health of Those Working in the Criminal Justice System

• Focus on building resilience in individuals involved in the criminal justice system (CJS).

Building Resilience through Reflection

• Reflection as a key tool for developing resilience.

Stress and Resilience

Levels of Stress:

• Little Stress: Does not contribute to building resilience.

• Moderate Stress: Has potential for resilience building through experience.

• Big Stress: Does not contribute to building resilience.

The Role of Self-Reflection

• Engaging in self-reflection is essential for developing resilience after moderate stress.

Processes in Resilience Building

Initial Psychological Response:

• Involves psychological distress response.

• Individuals possess a capacity for resilience.

• Resilient beliefs emerge.

• Coping and emotional regulation repertoire is utilized.

• Encountering stressors, particularly moderate psychological stress, prompts systematic self-reflection.

• Ultimately leads to resilient outcomes encompassing social, cognitive, motivational, and practical coping resources.

Self-Reflective Practices

Focus Areas for Self-Reflection:

1. Situation-focused: Understanding the situation objectively.

2. Development-focused: Emphasis on personal growth.

3. Self-awareness: Recognizing one's emotions and responses.

4. Trigger Identification: Understanding what specific factors cause stress.

5. Re-appraisal of Stressor: Evaluating stressors in a new light.

Values and Goals:

• Emphasizing the importance of aligning personal and professional values and goals during reflection.

Building Your Resilience Toolkit

1. Positive Attitude: Cultivating optimism in the face of challenges.

2. Flexible Thinking: Adapting thought processes to changing situations.

3. Personal Moral Compass: Guided decision-making based on personal values.

4. Resilient Role Model: Learning from those who exemplify resilience.

5. Facing Fears: Confronting and overcoming fears.

6. Active Coping: Engaging in proactive strategies to manage stress.

7. Supportive Social Network: Building strong interpersonal connections.

8. Physical Fitness: Engaging in regular physical activity to boost mental health.

9. Emotional & Cognitive Training: Enhancing emotional intelligence and cognitive skills.

10. Recognize and Use Your Strengths: Identifying personal strengths and leveraging them.

11. Work/Life Balance: Maintaining equilibrium between professional and personal life.

12. Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness to enhance awareness and reduce stress.

Conclusion

• Emphasizes the importance of mental health in the criminal justice workforce and the development of strategies to build resilience among individuals in challenging environments.