There's no question, police work can be both physically and mentally challenging. During the run of a regular shift, an RCMP member can find his or herself in any number of different scenarios that require good physical stamina and control, as well as sharp mental focus. It's important our police officers are prepared to deal with both the physical and mental strain of their work. The RCMP takes these workplace requirements very seriously, and strives to ensure all its police officers and employees have the tools they need to do their jobs each and every day.
On the physical side, well – there's a reason why a lot of fitness programs are called "boot camp." All RCMP members go through an intensive 26-week basic training, and most cadets leave Depot in the best physical condition of their lives. Once they're posted to a detachment, it's essential to keep those physical fitness standards up.
RCMP members are required to regularly pass the Physical Abilities Requirement Evaluation, also known as PARE. The test is made up of three parts that simulates some of the scenarios that police officers might encounter in their daily work – an obstacle course, a push/pull activity and a weight carry. This ensures they're always ready to handle whatever situation they might find themselves in on the job, as well as being able to provide backup to their colleagues. A lot of RCMP members actually enjoy PARE because it's so applicable to the things they may be required to perform in the run of a shift, and it's a great benchmark to ensure they're in top physical condition.
This isn't just front-line police officers either, it also includes officers and senior management right up through the ranks. Strong and healthy RCMP police officers and employees build more than just public safety. Those who are committed to staying physically fit are also contributing to our province's well-being by endorsing healthy lifestyles and providing good examples to their communities. Many also give their own time and resources to coaching and volunteering with local sports teams, helping others meet their fitness and lifestyle goals.
Of course, physical fitness is only part of the picture. The RCMP is also working to improve the mental health services and supports its members and employees need. This starts with RCMP cadets' basic training and is followed up throughout their careers.
All RCMP employees undergo training in a program called Road to Mental Readiness, internally known as R2MR. Modelled after a successful program used in the military, the program aims to eliminate stigma surrounding mental health issues and reduce barriers that prevent people from seeking help, as well as helping people learn healthy coping strategies and mental resiliency. The New Brunswick RCMP was the first adopter of the program and ran a pilot project in 2013. The training has now been adapted for use by other first responder groups across the country, as well as the general public.
One of the most useful parts of the program is a colour-coded system to determine how someone is doing mentally – from "green," or healthy, to "red" or ill. The idea is to identify when you're dealing with stress factors that take you out of the "green zone," allowing you to seek resources before you find yourself in the "red." The program also gives coping techniques specifically to help first-responders deal with some of the stressful and challenging work they encounter every day.
A healthy approach to both physical and mental health is an important skill for every New Brunswickers, allowing us to contribute to our communities, be good role models for youth, and improve our own abilities to enjoy life in our beautiful province.
Sheri Dryden
New Brunswick RCMP
Fitness and Lifestyle Advisor