As a certified clinical mental health therapist who has been recommending Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services since their inception, I have witnessed firsthand the importance of accessible mental health care in the workplace. Over the years, I have grown increasingly optimistic about the rise of teletherapy, especially in the post-pandemic world, as it has significantly expanded access to mental health services for employees at all levels—from entry-level workers to senior executives. In fact, as a certified mental health teletherapist, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals across various industries through both face-to-face and virtual platforms.
While every profession comes with its own set of challenges, loss prevention professionals face particularly unique mental health risks. These risks are driven by constant exposure to crime, hazardous situations, and the ongoing pressure to ensure the safety of others. In this article, I will explore when professionals in these roles may benefit from counseling or psychotherapy, discuss the common psychological issues they face, and outline therapeutic options that can support them in maintaining both their mental health and professional success. This is obviously information and not clinical advice, but it is important for loss prevention professionals to be aware of their options.
I’ve seen firsthand the mental and emotional toll that these high-pressure roles can take. The demands of the job, coupled with frequent exposure to challenging and potentially dangerous situations, can often lead to significant stress and mental health concerns. For those in this field, seeking professional counseling is not just about addressing crises but about maintaining emotional resilience and mental well-being over the long term. Parenthetically, it should also be no surprise that even the retirement years can be impacted by mental health challenges.
Therapeutic Options for Loss Prevention Professionals
Therapeutic options for these professionals are diverse, and the right choice depends on individual needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often employed to challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors that can arise from the stress and trauma associated with loss prevention roles. For individuals dealing with anxiety or trauma, CBT helps reframe irrational fears and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Another effective approach is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). EMDR works by helping individuals process traumatic memories in a less emotionally distressing manner. The Veterans Administration (VA) has embraced EMDR with their returning warriors.
For more chronic conditions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) provides tools to accept difficult thoughts and emotions without becoming overwhelmed by them. ACT focuses on aligning behavior with core values and finding meaning at work and in life, which is particularly useful for professionals who may feel disconnected from their roles due to burnout or occupational stress. Of course there are many types of psychotherapy and counseling services, in addition to medically-based psychiatric programs, but CBT, EMDR, and ACT provide a good set of examples.
Teletherapy and in-person counseling both offer valuable means of accessing care, depending on the professional’s preferences and logistical needs. For loss prevention professionals who may work irregular hours or in remote locations, teletherapy provides flexibility while still offering consistent support. Table 1 summarizes illustrative treatment options.
Common DSM-5-TR Diagnoses Among LP Professionals
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR), is a manual published by the American Psychiatric Association that classifies and defines mental disorders. Working in environments with high demands and frequent confrontations can lead to psychological stressors. Below are some of the most common DSM-5-TR diagnoses for loss prevention professionals that might prompt self-referral or company-referral for counseling or psychotherapy:
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Definition: PTSD occurs after exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or violence. Symptoms include intrusive memories, nightmares, flashbacks, and hypervigilance, as well as avoidance of trauma reminders.
Illustration: A loss prevention professional might develop PTSD after experiencing a violent robbery or an assault in the workplace. They may avoid certain parts of the store where the incident occurred or feel hypervigilant, always scanning for threats, even when off duty.
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Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Definition: GAD involves excessive worry about a variety of topics, events, or activities. It is often accompanied by restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and irritability.
Illustration: A loss prevention officer could develop GAD due to the constant pressure to prevent theft and ensure safety. They might worry excessively about potential security breaches, causing them to feel on edge, fatigued, and unable to relax even after work hours.
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Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Definition: MDD is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities. It can also involve changes in sleep, appetite, and concentration.
Illustration: A loss prevention professional facing constant stress and lack of recognition might develop MDD. They may feel unmotivated to go to work, experience trouble sleeping, and struggle to focus on their tasks, believing that their efforts are not making a difference.
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Acute Stress Disorder (ASD)
Definition: ASD involves the development of severe anxiety and other symptoms within a month of a traumatic event. Symptoms are similar to PTSD but occur immediately after the trauma and last for a shorter duration.
Illustration: After witnessing or being involved in a violent confrontation, a loss prevention officer might experience intense distress for a few weeks, including difficulty sleeping, flashbacks to the event, and avoiding the scene of the incident.
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Substance Use Disorder
Definition: Substance use disorder occurs when an individual uses drugs or alcohol in a way that causes significant impairment or distress, such as using substances to cope with stress, developing a tolerance, or experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
Illustration: A loss prevention professional may turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with the high stress and emotional toll of the job. Over time, they may find themselves needing more of the substance to unwind and perform, eventually leading to substance dependence.
Each of these disorders are tied to the specific challenges and stressors faced by loss prevention professionals, who work in high-risk, high-stress environments. Recognizing these symptoms early can lead to more effective intervention and recovery. Table 2 highlights the job relevance of seeking professional counseling for any type of disorder listed in the DSM-5-TR.
Case Study 1: PTSD After a Violent Confrontation
Background: John, a 42-year-old loss prevention manager at a large retail chain, had years of experience handling theft and security breaches. One evening, while confronting a shoplifter, the situation escalated, and the individual pulled out a weapon. Though the event ended without serious injury, John’s mental health took a severe hit. He began experiencing flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance whenever he was in the store, particularly near the location of the incident.
Symptoms: John showed clear signs of PTSD, including difficulty sleeping, avoiding the site of the confrontation, and increased anxiety when performing his duties. His family noticed his irritability, and he started isolating himself, even from his colleagues.
Intervention: John’s employer noticed his behavioral changes and encouraged him to seek counseling through an employee assistance program. Through therapy, John received cognitive-behavioral therapy and exposure therapy, which helped him face and process his trauma. Over time, John learned coping mechanisms, such as mindfulness and grounding exercises, to regain control of his work environment without being overcome by flashbacks.
Outcome: After six months of therapy, John returned to a more balanced state. He could continue his work, though he remained vigilant about managing his PTSD symptoms. His workplace supported him by offering adjusted duties and regular check-ins, ensuring he stayed mentally healthy.
Case Study 2: GAD Triggered by Daily Stress
Background: Sarah, a 34-year-old asset protection officer, was responsible for monitoring several high-risk stores in a bustling city. Her job required constant multitasking, and she often worked long hours, covering for colleagues who were absent. Sarah had always been meticulous, but as her workload increased, so did her anxiety. She began to experience symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, including racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, and constant worry about whether she was performing well enough.
Symptoms: Sarah’s anxiety was relentless. Even at home, she would worry about potential thefts or security breaches she might have missed. She experienced muscle tension, headaches, and a growing sense of dread every morning before work. Her personal life began to suffer as her focus remained on her job.
Intervention: Sarah sought help after recognizing that her anxiety was impacting her ability to function. She started seeing a therapist who specialized in GAD. Cognitive-behavioral techniques were employed to help her challenge irrational fears and learn stress management strategies. She also began practicing deep breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation to calm her anxiety during intense moments at work.
Outcome: Through consistent therapy, Sarah learned to manage her anxiety and set boundaries between work and home life. Her company also adjusted her schedule, ensuring that she could take time off when needed and avoid burnout. Sarah continues to use the coping techniques she learned, and she remains effective in her role without feeling overwhelmed.
Conclusion
Loss prevention professionals face unique stressors that can impact their mental health. By understanding the common psychological challenges such as PTSD, generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, and burnout, both individuals and employers can take steps to ensure early intervention and proper care.
Professional counseling or psychotherapy offers a path to healing, helping professionals cope with the emotional toll of their demanding jobs. As the case studies in this article illustrate, with the right support, individuals can overcome their mental health challenges and continue to thrive in their careers. Promoting a workplace culture that values mental well-being is not only vital for the health of individuals but also for the long-term success and resilience of the company.