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.