What physical symptoms may officers experience after an OIS?

Officers may experience fatigue after an officer-involved shooting (OIS) due to the intense physical and emotional stress associated with such incidents. The body's response to extreme situations can lead to an adrenal response, which, after the adrenaline rush subsides, often results in fatigue. This exhaustion may be both mental and physical, as the officer processes the traumatic event and its implications. Psychological factors related to the nature of the incident, including anxiety, stress, and trauma, can also contribute to feelings of fatigue. Recognizing this symptom is crucial for understanding the overall impact of an OIS on an officer’s well-being.

In contrast, heightened reflexes and increased energy are typically short-term responses to immediate stress and may not persist after the initial event. Stomach cramps could arise due to stress as well, but fatigue is a more common and direct consequence of the aftermath of an OIS, making it a more relevant symptom in this context.