Officer Wellness and PTSD
Correctional Officer Wellness Project
Compared to the general public, studies show that corrections officers across the country face a much higher likelihood of being diagnosed with or experiencing symptoms related to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
This recognition of a serious and pervasive problem amongst employees, illustrates the impact the corrections environment has on everyone involved and validates the long-held belief that more must be done to protect and improve the mental and physical health of those who work behind the walls.
To raise this issue and develop plausible solutions, One Voice United aims to develop and launch a national campaign that puts officer wellness front and center with policy makers, reformers and the media.
One Voice United drafted policy recommendations sent to the National Governors Association with the support of national labor leaders and presidents of 16 state unions across the country.
In 2021, One Voice United announced the formation of an International Working Group to further understand and combat the effects of PTSD on corrections officers, staff and their families. The press release can be read here.