Stress-Busting tips for our Security Heroes

Nearly 40% of security officers experience mental health issues with  64.6% of security officers face verbal abuse monthly, 43% receive threats of violence, and over 30% report physical assaults annually (source).

Looks bad, right? Vigilance prioritised the security world, containing stress as an unwanted foe. As we see above, security professionals in high-stake roles experience significantly higher stress levels. Not your health, but also your ability to stay alert are impacted. 

For the front lines of safety, the effects of stress on both mind and body is the first step towards empowerment. Stress, while a common response to the extraordinary demands of the job, can undercut physical health and cloud decision-making. The good news? There are strategies that can help mitigate these effects swiftly and effectively. So, for our security heroes, we’re here with 5 quick mastering stress relief tips and tricks.

Five Quick Stress-Busters

✅ Take a moment for a mindful breathing exercise. Find a quiet spot and spend 5 minutes on tactical breathing, a technique refined by military professionals and adapted for anyone facing stress. Focus solely on your breathing. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale through your mouth. This simple act can lower stress levels and bring a sense of calm to your day.

✅ Progressive muscle relaxation doesn’t need to be time-consuming. Even a brief session focusing on tensing and then relaxing each muscle group can reduce stress. Start with your feet and work your way up to your head. This technique not only eases tension but also refocuses your mind away from stressors.

✅ Perception is a powerful tool in stress management. The next time you’re faced with a stressful scenario, try a quick reframing exercise. Ask yourself, “What’s another way to view this situation?” or “What can I learn from this?” This technique shifts your thought process; challenges transformed into opportunities for growth.

✅ No equipment? No problem. Stress can be as much physical as it is mental, so incorporating simple physical exercises can offer immediate relief. Shoulder shrugs, neck rolls, or even stretching your arms above your head can release muscle tension, bring relaxation. These moves don’t require a gym; use them seamlessly into your day. You’re on a break or transitioning between tasks? Use the opportunity and do it.

✅ Think you don’t have time for meditation? Think again. Micro-meditations can be as short as one minute and performed anywhere. Simply close your eyes, focus on your breath, and let go of your thoughts as they arise. These brief pauses to reset can significantly lower stress levels, enhancing focus and emotional equilibrium, making them a perfect fit for the fast-paced security environment.

Make Stress Management a Habit

Integrate these techniques into your daily routine and have lasting benefits. Turn them into your go-to tools for stress management. Experiment with these strategies and understand what works best for you and create a personalised toolkit for managing stress.

Remember, managing stress is about enhancing your overall well-being and effectiveness on the job. Use these quick stress-busting practices,and maintain the highest standard of professional vigilance and care for those you protect.

At Get Licensed, we’re committed to supporting our security professionals not just in career development but in health and well-being too. We understand the unique challenges you face and strive to provide resources that make a real difference in your day-to-day life.

Have you tried any of these stress relief techniques? Do you have any quick tips of your own? Share your experiences and suggestions in the comments. Together, we can build a supportive community, with sharing knowledge and strategies that uplift and assist us all.