Stop The Threat - Stop The Stigma

08/01/2025

Stop The Threat - Stop The Stigma Founder Adam Meyers, CPS received this in an e-mail.

Thank you for your kind words and support.

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08/01/2025

Imposter syndrome, characterized by persistent self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy despite evidence of competence, is a common experience among police officers. Stop The Threat - Stop The Stigma knows that it can affect officers at any stage of their career, from rookies to seasoned veterans, and manifests as anxiety, self-sabotage, and a reluctance to embrace new challenges or leadership roles.

Recognizing Imposter Syndrome in Policing.

Feeling like a fraud:

Officers experiencing imposter syndrome may constantly doubt their abilities and fear being exposed as incompetent, even when they have a proven track record of success.

Attributing success to luck:

They may downplay their achievements, believing they were simply in the right place at the right time or that anyone could have done what they did.

Deflecting praise:

Officers may struggle to accept compliments or take ownership of their accomplishments, attributing them to external factors or the generosity of others.

Fear of failure:

They may feel intense pressure to succeed and worry excessively about making mistakes, leading to anxiety and self-doubt.

Avoiding challenges:

Imposter syndrome can hinder career advancement as officers may avoid taking on new responsibilities or applying for promotions, fearing they won't be able to live up to the expectations.

Impact of Imposter Syndrome on Police Officers.

Reduced confidence and self-esteem:

Constant self-doubt can erode an officer's confidence and make them question their place in the profession.

Increased stress and anxiety:

The fear of being exposed as a fraud can lead to heightened stress levels and anxiety, potentially impacting mental well-being.

Negative impact on performance:

Self-doubt and anxiety can affect decision-making, communication, and overall performance on the job.

Burnout:

The pressure to constantly prove oneself and the fear of failure can contribute to burnout and a desire to leave the profession.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome.

Recognize it as a normal experience:

Many officers experience imposter syndrome, and acknowledging it as a common phenomenon can be helpful.

Challenge negative thoughts:

Actively challenge the negative self-talk and replace it with positive affirmations and evidence of your accomplishments.

Focus on strengths and achievements:

Keep a record of positive feedback, accomplishments, and skills to remind yourself of your capabilities.

Seek support:

Talk to trusted colleagues, mentors, or a therapist about your feelings of self-doubt and seek their guidance.

Embrace imperfection:

Recognize that everyone makes mistakes and that failure is a part of the learning process.

Focus on continuous professional development:

Invest in training and education to enhance your skills and build confidence in your abilities.

Celebrate successes:

Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, to reinforce your sense of self-worth.
By acknowledging, understanding, and addressing imposter syndrome, police officers can overcome self-doubt, build confidence, and thrive in their careers.

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Pictured: Captain Adam Meyers, CPS and Founder

07/31/2025

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Mental health support shouldn’t be hard to find, or ask for. With Lexipol, your team gets instant access to 60+ wellness topics, self-assessments, peer support, and more, all on their phone, anytime. See why agencies trust us: https://trib.al/LOgGKC3

07/31/2025

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Adam Meyers explores a Police Officer’s journey through PTSD: breaking mental health stigma in law enforcement through Q&A. 

07/30/2025

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Adam A. Meyers is a Police Captain with Hartford Township Police Department, a Certified Peer Specialist in Wisconsin, and the Founder of Stop The Threat – S...

07/29/2025

Stop The Threat - Stop The Stigma Founder Adam Meyers, CPS received this in an email.

Thank you for your kind words and support.

www.stopthethreatstopthestigma.org

07/29/2025

Stop The Threat - Stop The Stigma Founder Adam Meyers, CPS recommends checking out Thunderhorse Acres.

They provide comprehensive, personalized instruction and equine assisted learning and therapy with Thunderhorse Hearts and Heroes.

They serve Washington, Ozaukee, and Milwaukee Counties in Wisconsin.

We provide comprehensive, personalized instruction! And Equine Assisted Learning & Therapy with Thunderhorse Hearts & Heroes

07/29/2025

The Founder of Stop The Threat - Stop The Stigma is a Certified Peer Specialist and Police Officer in Wisconsin, but what does that mean?

A Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) is a trained individual with lived experience of mental health or substance use challenges who provides support to others on their recovery journey. They utilize their personal experiences, combined with formal training, to offer hope, encouragement, and practical guidance to individuals navigating similar situations.

Key Characteristics of a Certified Peer Specialist.

Lived Experience:

CPSs have personal experience with mental health conditions, substance use disorders, or co-occurring disorders.

Formal Training:

They complete specialized training and certification programs to develop the skills needed to support others in recovery.

Recovery-Oriented:

They focus on promoting recovery, personal responsibility, empowerment, and self-determination for their peers.

Support and Guidance:

CPSs help individuals set goals, develop coping strategies, and connect with resources to achieve their personal recovery goals.

Role Modeling:

They act as role models, demonstrating that recovery is possible and providing hope to others.

Collaborative Approach:

CPSs work as part of a team, collaborating with other professionals and service providers.

Emphasis on Peer Support Principles:

They center peer support principles and skills in their work, fostering a sense of connection and shared understanding.

What Certified Peer Specialists Do.

Offer Emotional Support:

Provide encouragement and understanding to individuals experiencing emotional distress.

Share Information:

Offer education about mental health and substance use, recovery resources, and coping strategies.

Connect Peers with Services:

Help individuals navigate the mental health and substance use service system and connect with appropriate resources.

Assist with Skill-Building:

Help individuals develop practical skills for managing their challenges and achieving their goals.

Facilitate Group Support:

Lead or participate in peer support groups, providing a safe space for sharing and mutual support.

Assist with Goal Setting:

Help individuals set realistic and achievable goals for their recovery journey.

Advocate for Peers:

Advocate for the needs and rights of individuals receiving services.

In essence, a Certified Peer Specialist is a valuable member of the recovery support system, offering hope, guidance, and practical support to individuals on their journey to wellness.

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Captain Adam Meyers, CPS and Founder

07/28/2025

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In this conversation, Adam A. Meyers shares his journey from military service to becoming a police officer in his rural, Wisconsin, hometown. He recounts a c...

07/27/2025

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Just One Hero Needed (JOHN) by Sanford Health was created to help 1st Responders & Veterans Only—new facility in Grand Rapids to open.

07/27/2025

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Something as simple as walking has real physical and mental benefits. It doesn’t even have to be power walking - low-intensity will do.