Police burnout is real — here's how to recognize the signs before it's too late.
First responder couples face unique challenges that can lead to exhaustion, cynicism, and disconnection. In this episode, Cop Shrink Dina Kale, LMFT, shares her personal story of burnout and her work with law enforcement families to help officers and spouses understand what burnout looks like, how it differs from PTSD, and what steps can protect relationships and wellbeing.
This episode features Dina Kale, a licensed marriage and family therapist known as Cop Shrink, who works extensively with law enforcement and first responder families. Dina shares her professional journey and her personal experiences with burnout, explaining how it can affect officers and spouses alike. She defines burnout, outlines its warning signs, and explains how it differs from PTSD and everyday stress. The discussion also provides practical strategies for recovery, including habits of wellness, mindset shifts, and identifying a personal "why."
👩⚕️ Hosted by Cyndi Doyle, founder of Code4Couples®, licensed professional counselor supervisor, retired police spouse, and author of Hold the Line.
📖 Grab Cyndi's book, Hold the Line → https://www.amazon.com/Hold-Line-Protecting-Enforcement-Relationship-ebook/dp/B08TPRTY9G#customerReviews
🎤 Book Cyndi to speak → https://code4couples.com/training/
00:00 Intro & guest background
06:30 What burnout really is
10:45 Burnout vs. "just stress"
14:00 How burnout shows up in relationships
21:00 Dina's personal burnout story
30:00 How to start recovery: habits of wellness
37:00 Shifting mindset & finding your "why"
46:00 Tips for spouses supporting officers
47:30 How to connect with Dina
