Which of the following is a sign that a fellow officer may be coping poorly with stress?

• A. Irritability
• B. Regular exercise
• C. Stable mood
• D. Consistent sleep

Answer: (A)

Stress can tax emotional regulation, and irritability is a telltale sign that someone may be struggling to cope. When coping is overwhelmed, quick to anger, short-tempered, or easily frustrated signals that the person’s emotional reserves are low and responses may be driven more by stress than by steady judgment. In a corrections setting, that kind of irritability can affect teamwork and safety, making it a red flag that a colleague might need support.

Regular exercise, stable mood, and consistent sleep, on the other hand, are signs of effective stress management and resilience. Exercise helps reduce stress hormones and improve mood, a steady mood reflects good emotional regulation, and consistent sleep supports recovery. If you notice irritability alongside these healthier patterns, it strengthens the case that coping may be slipping. When spotting irritability, approach with care, check in with the colleague, and remind them of peer support and wellness resources available.