Mandating wellness programs for police officers

First responders are often exposed to traumatic incidents. This exposure to trauma, coupled with organizational and operational stress can create maladaptive coping mechanisms if left untreated. In this major paper I explore trauma and the effects of untreated trauma on first responders as well as problems that may arise in their personal and professional lives. I will argue that within first responder organizations, senior managers need to not only recognize exposure to trauma as a potential work hazard, but also move beyond such recognition of the debilitating effects of trauma and implement mandatory wellness programs.