You show up each day mission-focused and ready to serve, with a sense of identity, structure, purpose and belonging. Whether you work in the field, behind a desk, in a specialized unit or in a support role, your work gives shape to your days and connects you to a team. When an injury, illness or administrative investigation removes you from duty, even temporarily, that structure vanishes overnight. This sudden shift can leave anyone feeling unsettled. Isolation, uncertainty and loss of purpose and routine can set in fast. The experience can feel far more disorienting than people expect. In those moments, peer support can be a lifeline.
Extended time away from work affects everyone differently, but for many employees in law enforcement, the impact can cut especially deep. The workplace isn’t just where we clock in; it’s where we find camaraderie, rhythm and purpose. When that disappears, many personnel experience a loss of identity and direction, disconnection from coworkers and the rhythms of shift work, and stress about financial, medical or professional uncertainty. Confidence can dip, and worries about being seen as “less than” can creep in. Some people feel disappointed or even betrayed by the situation or the lack of contact from colleagues. These reactions aren’t weakness; they’re human, and they’re far more common than most people realize.
There are also quieter challenges that don’t always get talked about. You may feel out of the loop, unsure of what’s happening at work or anxious about how things will look when you return. You might hesitate to reach out because you don’t want to “bother” anyone or because you assume others are too busy. You might even feel guilty for being away, even though your situation is out of your control. These thoughts can deepen the sense of isolation, and this is exactly where peer support can make a meaningful difference.
Peer support connects you with someone who understands the job, the culture and the unspoken realities of working in our Department. Many of our peer supporters have personally navigated illness, injury, administrative leave or unexpected time away from work. That shared experience matters. Connecting with a peer supporter as you navigate your circumstances can reduce isolation and instill hope that you can get through this challenging time. Talking with a peer supporter who has “been there” can help to normalize what you are experiencing and quiet feelings of shame and self-doubt. Peer support serves as an additional confidential, supportive resource that you can use when you need a listening ear, practical tools and guidance, or connection to other resources.
If you are currently off work unexpectedly, staying connected is not a burden to others. Many employees believe myths like “I don’t want to bother anyone,” “People will think I’m weak” or “Everyone has forgotten about me.” None of these are true. Our peer supporters genuinely want to support you, because they understand how isolating this experience can be. Staying connected doesn’t have to be complicated. It might look like a regular check-in call or text, asking a peer supporter for updates about work, talking through worries about returning, or simply sharing what’s been hardest for you. Accepting help now can make the road back, whatever that looks like, steadier and healthier. You are more than an injury, an illness or an investigation. You are a valued member of this Department, and you matter.
You do not have to navigate this experience alone. Peer support is confidential, judgment-free and available to every employee, sworn and professional alike. If you’re struggling, feeling disconnected or simply want someone to talk to, here is how you can connect with a peer supporter:
• Call Psychological Services Bureau at (213) 738-3500 and ask to be connected with a peer supporter.
• Use the “Contact Us” feature in the LASD Lighthouse app.
• Access the Peer Support roster on the intranet under “Employee Services” and reach out to a peer supporter directly.