I have been a correctional officer for 16 years my wife said i have changed and i have no emotions i don't get excited about anything any more is this normal?

Answer 1

You could try any of the types of depression medicines on the market.

Answer

That is a very tough job and it does take its toll on a person such as what you are describing. Being in your job for 16 years would most likely have this same result for just about anyone. I think you almost HAVE to get that way in order to do your job and do it well but it does take an enormous toll on you as a person because you end up with the result you are describing. I think it would be extremely difficult to have no emotions at work (which is pretty much what you have to do) and then go home and be able to turn them back on. I do think that seeing a counselor (a psychologist or family counselor) could help you with your situation. Make sure you find a good one. There are many out there who are NOT good counselors so do your homework first. Type their name into Google and do several searches to see if you find any negative information or complaints against them. If you go to one and it doesn't feel right then find a different one. You should be able to communicate well with your counselor and be able to understand their responses to what you say. If you don't then it's not the right one for you. A good one should be able to help you significantly where you can have your life back. Correctional officers, police officers, and paramedics very often end up in the exact situation that you are in. It's a kind of self-defense mechanism that evolves over time so, yes, it is normal that this has happened to you. It's not unique to you. You just need some assistance working through it and you'll be fine. My hat is off to you guys for your line of work. Hang in there, find a good counselor, and you'll get through it.