What is the psychological impact of excessive overtime on officers?

Excessive overtime can have significant psychological impacts on officers, primarily leading to increased stress, fatigue, and a heightened risk of burnout. When officers work beyond their regular hours, it can result in insufficient rest and recovery time, which over time accumulates and creates a state of physical and mental exhaustion. This chronic fatigue diminishes their overall effectiveness, impairs decision-making, and can contribute to feelings of frustration and helplessness.

The combination of fatigue and stress can also lead to various mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression. As officers grapple with these issues, their job performance may decline, reducing their overall job satisfaction. The impact of excessive work hours often detracts from their ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance, further exacerbating feelings of isolation and stress. This cycle can create a detrimental environment not only for the officers but also for their colleagues and the community they serve.