During the covid-19 pandemic over the past 17 months studies are showing that 1 out of 5 people are suffering some kind of depression due to the prolonged life affects of this virus. This includes job security, food security, worries over rent payment or eviction possibilities, and health concerns. One out of five people affected is an enormous number, and means it is hitting every industry, including the security officer protection industry.
Many companies could have their employees work from home remotely. But frontline workers, among which security guards are counted, did not have that option. It’s report to work as usual to perform critical duties.
As a leading security guard services company, we take seriously the mental health of our team members. And during this ongoing pandemic, we are taking extra measures to see to the well-being of our officers. As security guards risk their lives every moment they’re on duty, which has its own unique pressures of emotional well-being and intelligence and reaction times, our critical job as managers is make sure our guards are at their best all the time. This means they have the mental agility and alertness, exhibit fast and smart responses, are mindful of the culture of the employment venue, are courteous and helpful to customers and staff, work for de-escalation and the wise response to situations, yet are prepared to use force.
Security guards often undergo verbal abuse while on the job. Some 65% in a study said they were verbally abused while doing their duties. With covid-19, there is also the risk the a security guard can be physically assaulted for being involved in mask-wearing compliance. There are many instances of guards being hurt or even killed due to covid-19 mitigation resistance.
Our responsibility as managers is to work closely with our guards to honestly evaluate their mental and emotional conditions, to make sure they’re mentally sharp, well rested, and if necessary have more time off to recoup and recharge. We also have counselors available to help individuals.