Frequently, we say and hear, "marriage is hard." We say first responder marriages are harder. In this acknowledgement, are we acknowledging higher likelihood for defeat? Do we give ourselves "an out" too easily? In this new article on Police1, I tackle that topic, much of it a genesis from many conversations I've had on Blue Grit Radio with mental health and relationship experts.
Please read, share, and give your thoughts!
(most recently, and aligned with this article)
Listen! (with Ther Horowitz and Dr. Mynda Ohs on Blue Grit Radio!
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I received a question: “Why are police marriages so difficult?”
It’s a question that comes up frequently among law enforcement officers and their families. Many of us have heard stories or have personal experiences that illustrate the unique challenges police couples face. These challenges often stem from shift work, high-stress situations and the mental toll of the job.
As one officer put it, “Marriage is hard.” I’ve heard that countless times, and if marriage itself is challenging, a police marriage might feel like a concrete barrier coming at you at high speed during a pursuit. It’s hard, complicated and stressful — but not insurmountable. Like any police operation, success in a police marriage depends on awareness, training, repetition and follow-up (or “the debrief”).
Let’s break down why police marriages are uniquely challenging and explore practical strategies to help officers and their spouses build resilient, supportive relationships that can withstand the pressures of the profession.
For the full article on WHY it's complicated and WHAT to do about it, click here (Police 1).
Good article on police marriages. I would like to add. My
book to your treading list . I love a Cop: What Police Families Need to Know (3rd edition). It has sold over 150,000 copies and been a resource For families everywhere. Ellen Kirschman, PhD.