Originally posted: October 30, 2023 There are a lot of great things about working at the VPD: it’s our home away from home and we’ve developed friendships and shared experiences that will last us a lifetime. We chose a life of service that involves dealing with other people’s suffering, attending traumatic events, working long hours […]
Author Archives: webadmin
September is Suicide Prevention Month
Originally posted: September 14, 2023 It’s not an easy topic to discuss, but it is essential we all talk about death by suicide. Suicide is complex and often has many contributing factors — including trauma from first-responder work. The Ontario Coroner’s Report Staying Visible, Staying Connected, For Life recognized three commonalities in the nine police officer suicides […]
You Learn Something New Every Day
Originally posted: September 7, 2023 Today, with the help of a brand-new recruit, on day one of his policing career, I pieced something together that I just hadn’t fully thought through before. They advised that registered clinical counselors (RCCs) cannot formally diagnose mental health conditions. I believe that is one of the reasons why psychologists […]
Did You Know? VPD Chaplaincy Services
Originally posted: September 5, 2023 Did you know the VPD contracts Chaplain Jim Turner to provide chaplaincy services for all VPD employees? With over 30 years of police chaplaincy, Jim understands the unique stresses of the policing culture, whether sworn or civilian. The blend of theological understanding from a multi-faith perspective, coupled with the unique […]
LOTS of People Talk to a Therapist
Originally posted: August 8, 2023 Seriously, everyone is affected by occupational stress to some degree. Plus, life gets complex. Chip away at your stuff — you’ll be a happier, healthier parent, partner, friend, colleague, or … boss. Research a therapist that is a good fit for you! Google them, go to their website, etc., look […]
VPD Pet Cafe
Originally posted: August 3, 2023 Wednesday’s Zen’s Day seems to be a popular blog post day. Who doesn’t like photos of animals doing cute things? Photo: Zen and puppy-in-training, Boo Way back in October 2020, I wrote short post “Why cute animals are good for your brain,” and I referenced an article written by Dana […]