Resources to bolster recruitment and retention in corrections will need to go deep to embed support services for professionals working in detention centers.
Corrections officers and detention center staff are the least visible of the public safety professions but require just as much care and attention when it comes to the mental health and wellness needs of their workforce. The 2023 MACo Winter Conference panel, “Correctional Officers as Caregivers,” explored the mental health and trauma-response needs of the workers “behind the walls.” A number of challenges and priorities came out of this session and discussion, but ultimately it was made abundantly clear that this workforce can not be sustained under the current conditions.
Audience members heard from a long-time veteran professional, a younger officer just starting out in the profession, and a mental health liaison that is tasked with meeting the needs of these populations young and old. Terry Kokolis, Director of Corrections for Talbot County Detention Center, shared how detention center staff are the forgotten arm of the public safety sphere. Officers endure long work hours, a constant stressful environment and lack of competitive pay compared to other public safety occupations. Amanda Tondin, a young corrections officer, opened up about the mental health challenges she faces with regularly elevated stress and anxiety levels that come with the territory. Without providing more robust mental health and wellness programming, these workers will continue to experience higher levels of burn out, shorter life expectancies, and low recruitment and retention across the board.
Jackie Burson, the Mental Health Liaison for the Charles County Detention Center, shared strategies and insights about how these professionals can be supported in the workplace and beyond. Their county created a wellness committee comprised of police, sheriff’s office employees, and civilians. The group organizes blood drives, suicide awareness activities, holiday and “morale-building” events, and visits with therapy dogs. Their sheriff’s office also created a mental health and wellness app for deputies and other employees. The app helps users find mental health resources and provides nutritional guidance and guided meditation.
Corrections officers are the first line of support for incarcerated individuals in need of rehabilitative services. In working with one of the most vulnerable populations in the state, these officers prioritize the health and well-being of those in their care over taking care of themselves. Modernizing wellness and trauma response services for these professionals has the potential to mitigate some of the damage and hopefully establish a more appealing trajectory for a workforce in dire need of revitalization.
Title: Correctional Officers as Caregivers: The Importance of Mental Health and Crisis Support
Speakers:
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- Terry Kokolis – Director of Corrections, Talbot County Detention Center
- Amanda Tondin – Correctional Officer, Talbot County Detention Center
- Jackie Burson – Mental Health Liaison, Charles County Sheriff’s Office
Moderator: The Honorable Delegate Rachel Munoz
More about MACo’s Winter Conference: