Substance Use Among Police & Law Enforcement

The demanding nature of law enforcement, with its unique culture and constant exposure to stress and trauma, can contribute to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as alcohol overuse. Officers often face immense pressure, and finding healthy ways to manage these stressors is crucial for their well-being.

How Common is Substance Use Within the Police Force?

High-stress careers, especially those involving life-and-death situations like first responders face, are strongly correlated with substance use. The constant pressure and trauma can lead to PTSD if left unaddressed, increasing the risk of self-medication and co-occurring disorders, like addiction. Sadly, this is a common struggle, with surveys indicating that nearly 30% of first responders may be battling substance use disorders.¹

According to a study published in the American Journal of Addiction, 7.8% of police officers met the criteria for lifetime alcohol misuse or dependence.² Of those:²

• 18.1% of male officers reported adverse events related to alcohol use.
• 15.8% of female officers reported adverse events related to alcohol use.

Concerned about your alcohol or drug use? Our confidential self-assessment can help you determine if you’re struggling with addiction and need support.

Why Is Addiction a Risk for Law Enforcement?

Law enforcement officers face a unique combination of high-stress situations, trauma exposure, and a culture that can sometimes stigmatize seeking help. These factors, coupled with the readily available means to self-medicate, create a heightened risk for substance use and addiction within this demanding profession.

Traumatic Incidents on the Job

Life in the police force means a life of routine or vigilance punctuated by episodes of violence. For example, a study conducted by The Oregonian found that Portland officers were involved with 7.3 shootings per year, on average, and some of those shootings were fatal. These officers suited up for work on an average day, went into familiar territory, and yet before that shift at work was over, they had to make the choice to end another person’s life.

Those brief episodes of violence are often followed by long and mind-numbing periods of waiting and paperwork. Games, jokes, patrols, and trainings can fill up the time. But deep in the back of every officer’s mind is the reminder that the call could come at any moment. And when it does, everything could be different.

Not Speaking About Their Struggles

Even when officers have people they can talk to, there are some cases or circumstances that officers can’t speak freely about. There are witness names to protect, the chain of evidence to consider, and investigations to preserve. Some details must be purposefully omitted or removed — sometimes indefinitely. Rather than tell half a story, officers may just opt to not speak.

Law enforcement officers undergo rigorous training to remain calm and decisive in high-pressure situations, often requiring them to suppress emotions for the sake of safety and effective action. While essential for the job, this emotional control can hinder their ability to process trauma and stress, potentially leading to reliance on unhealthy coping mechanisms like alcohol. Unfortunately, the very culture that encourages this emotional stoicism can also make it difficult to seek help and support within their own ranks.

Ways Officers May Cope With The Stress and Pressure

Officers facing the intense pressures of their profession often develop coping strategies to manage stress. Some adopt a tough exterior, creating a barrier to emotional vulnerability and connection. While this may seem effective in deflecting unwanted inquiries, it can lead to isolation and exacerbate internal struggles. Others, seeking temporary relief from hyperarousal and emotional turmoil, may turn to include:

• Alcohol.
• Marijuana.
• Prescription painkillers.
• Benzodiazepines.
• Opioids.

However, these substances provide only fleeting respite and can lead to dependence and addiction, further compounding the challenges officers face.

Finding a Better Coping Response

Addressing addiction requires comprehensive treatment that allows officers to focus solely on recovery, away from the demands of the job. Effective programs provide tools to manage not only substance use but also the ongoing stressors inherent to law enforcement, fostering long-term well-being and resilience. Tools that officers will take with them from treatment include:

• Knowledge: Understanding addiction is crucial for recovery. Through therapy, education, and self-reflection, officers in treatment gain valuable insights into the biological and psychological effects of substance use, empowering them to make informed choices and develop strategies for lasting healing.
• Confidentiality: Recovery thrives in an environment of open communication. Rehab provides a safe and confidential space for officers to explore their challenges, develop healthy communication skills, and learn to express their emotions without compromising professional boundaries.
• Support: Many rehab facilities incorporate 12-step support groups, offering a valuable space for officers to connect with peers, share experiences, and learn from others in recovery. This provides ongoing support and strengthens their commitment to sobriety beyond the structured treatment setting.
• Family healing: Family support is essential for lasting recovery. Rehab often includes family therapy sessions, fostering understanding, improving communication, and strengthening relationships crucial for the officer’s continued well-being.
• Healthy living: Rehab programs emphasize the importance of healthy living for sustained recovery. Officers learn how nutrition, sleep, exercise, and engaging in meaningful activities can build resilience and support long-term well-being.

Addiction Treatment for Police Offers & Law Enforcement

AAC recognizes the stakes are high every day for law enforcement officers and it’s our responsibility to the heroes who run towards danger instead of away from it. AAC has developed an alcohol and substance abuse treatment program that addresses the specific stressors faced by those who work in the law enforcement field. Our program was developed using input from veteran officers and clinicians who have worked with hundreds of officers.

When you’re ready to get help reach out to us today at . American Addiction Centers’ nationwide network of treatment centers offers addiction-focused evidence-based treatment to help get you on the road to recovery and back to living the life you deserve. Our compassionate and knowledgeable admissions navigators are on hand to answer your questions about treatment, help to verify your insurance or go over other payment options, and support you on your journey to recovery.