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Law enforcement sleep crisis: Strategies to enhance rest and readiness

“Research shows that about 75% of our law enforcement do not get sufficient sleep on their shift nights.”

In Police1’s “What Cops Want in 2024” survey, more than 2,800 officers nationwide shed light on the growing toll of fatigue in law enforcement. Grueling schedules, relentless overtime and insufficient recovery time means officers are tired — physically, mentally and emotionally.

In a special episode of the Policing Matters podcast Roll Call series on officer health and well-being, host Jim Dudley speaks with David Black, PhD; and Mandy Nice about:

  • Officer wellness and sleep research insights
  • Law enforcement sleep strategies to reduce fatigue
  • Boosting performance through police officer sleep improvement
  • Practical tips to improve health and wellness
  • Unlock Functional Fitness
  • Transforming Post-Traumatic Injury Into Growth
  • How to Build Wealth and Crush Debt
  • Building Effective Wellness Programs
  • The Power of Connection: Family, Friends Faith

In this episode, Dr. David Black and Mandy Nice discuss proactive measures officers can take to improve their sleep.

  • Top quote: “Research shows that about 75% of our law enforcement do not get sufficient sleep on their shift nights.”
  • Top tip: Invest in a sleep mask. Full retinal blackout stimulates your body to produce natural melatonin.
  • Top resource: Simple hacks for improved sleep

About our guests

  • Dr. David Black is founder of Cordico. He also serves on the Board of Directors for Lexipol.
  • Mandy Nice is senior CEM, Lexipol. She has over 18 years of experience developing and implementing national award-winning physical fitness and wellness programs.

About the Policing Matters Podcast

Policing Matters is a weekly law enforcement podcast bringing you the latest news and critical issues impacting police officers. Listen as Police1 columnist and Deputy Chief Jim Dudley (ret.) sits down with law enforcement and criminal justice experts from across the country to talk strategy and trends in policing.

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Spotify, and RSS feed. You can also watch the show on Police1’s YouTube channel.

Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Contact the Policing Matters team at policingmatters@police1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback.

This article was originally posted December 29, 2022. It has been updated with additional information and resources.

FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS WEEK RESOURCES
How safe would you feel knowing your backup officer hasn’t had a restful night’s sleep in weeks and is struggling to stay awake?
Fatigue can be hazardous for law enforcement officers who must always remain alert and focused on their duties
From managing unpredictable income to planning for early retirement, this guide offers essential financial strategies tailored to police, fire, EMS and corrections professionals
Every little bit helps; find out which fitness clubs give first responders the most bang for their buck
It can have a range of negative effects on both physical and mental health
When you avoid processing your most challenging calls, you don’t get better or even stay the same; you get worse

Policing Matters law enforcement podcast with host Jim Dudley features law enforcement and criminal justice experts discussing critical issues in policing