By William “Karl” Pyrdom Jr.
Mental health is a topic that permeates many aspects of our daily lives. However, my experience in small law enforcement agencies suggests that this critical issue often goes neglected. I spent 16 years in various law enforcement positions within two agencies, each with fewer than 40 sworn officers. Approaching 40 years of age, I hold both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in criminal justice and am in the final stages of earning my MBA. I am a statistical anomaly, having remained married to my wife for 15 years and raising two wonderful children — an achievement, given the high rates of divorce among my colleagues.
My law enforcement journey began as a 19-year-old reserve officer, fresh out of the police academy and still living at home. Raised by a generation that believed in “rubbing some dirt in it and getting back to work,” I embraced the perceived freedom and excitement of patrolling a large, rural county. However, the reality soon set in when, just six weeks into my career, I experienced a life-changing traumatic event.
Responding to a “man with a gun” call, I found myself alone, with backup 15 minutes away. Confronting the armed man on a deck, I issued commands and tried to de-escalate the situation. Despite my efforts, he took his own life in front of his family. The vivid details of that day remain etched in my memory, a testament to the lasting impact of such incidents. This trauma, like many others, was something I was expected to “lock away” and get back to work.
The pervasive “tough guy” mentality in law enforcement fosters an environment where officers feel the need to appear unaffected by trauma. This mindset discourages seeking help, leading to unresolved issues that surface later in life. For years, I subscribed to this mentality, believing I was unaffected by the daily traumas I encountered. It wasn’t until I transitioned to a remote job outside law enforcement that I realized the depth of my unresolved issues.
Initially, the change was a welcome respite. However, after six months, the isolation allowed my buried memories and trauma to resurface. I became paranoid, moody and distant, neglecting my duties as a husband and father. My unfounded suspicions about my wife’s fidelity exemplified the extent of my deteriorating mental health. I had failed to process my trauma, a common issue in small agencies lacking mental health resources.
While larger departments may have structured mental health programs, smaller agencies often do not, exacerbating officers’ isolation and suffering. The high suicide rates among law enforcement officers highlight the urgent need for a cultural shift. We must move away from the “tough guy” persona and toward a culture that recognizes the importance of mental health.
The systemic neglect of mental health in small law enforcement agencies is a critical issue. The “rub some dirt in it” mentality, born from limited resources and the pressures of tight-knit communities, stigmatizes vulnerability and discourages seeking help. The absence of mental health support in these agencies leaves officers to navigate their trauma alone, impacting not only themselves but also their families and communities.
A cultural shift is urgently needed to integrate mental health resources into all levels of law enforcement, regardless of agency size. Only then can we mitigate the silent struggles faced by officers and foster a supportive environment that prioritizes mental well-being. Always remember — there are resources available to help officers in their time of need. Suffering in silence for fear of being judged is unacceptable, especially in this day and age. If you do not take care of yourself both physically and mentally, you cannot be the servant you were called to be.
About the author
William “Karl” Pyrdom Jr. is a dedicated professional with over a decade of experience in criminal investigation, personnel security and regulatory compliance. Based in Shelbyville, Tennessee, he has served in various law enforcement roles, including deputy sheriff, patrol officer, patrol division corporal and criminal investigator. He shares his expertise as an adjunct faculty member at the Sonoran Desert Institute, teaching courses in firearms inspection and troubleshooting.
Karl holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, a Master of Science in Criminal Justice and an MBA from Bethel University, all of which he completed with a 4.0 GPA. He is also certified in Mobile Device Forensics and Fire Investigation.
Family is a central part of Karl’s life. He is married and enjoys spending quality time with his children, exploring the outdoors, and engaging in community activities. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in his professional journey, motivating him to pursue excellence in his career.