THRIVING THROUGH THE CRACKS: PROMOTING MENTAL HEALTH RESILIENCE IN THE U.S. BORDER PATROL

Abstract

The U.S. Border Patrol has become the face of immigration in the United States because of the wave of migrants at the southern border who continue to seek the American dream by extreme means. While the literature is replete with accounts of immigrants and their treacherous journeys, this thesis tells a different, yet equally relevant, story—that of the Border Patrol agent whose professional and personal life is challenged every day by such stressors as the threat of violence and danger, political pressures, and moral injury. This thesis seeks to identify alternative programs for building mental-health resilience as suicides among Border Patrol agents remain constant. To this end, this thesis explores mental health challenges and their causes and the barriers to seeking treatment that are unique to law enforcement and the Border Patrol. As the migrant crisis continues, it is essential that Border Patrol agents be provided with the necessary tools to maintain their resilience while protecting America. This thesis conducts a comparative case study to analyze two programs that the U.S. military utilizes (equine assistance therapy and the battle buddy system). This thesis finds that both programs benefit overall mental wellness and thus recommends that the U.S. Border Patrol consider implementing the two programs into its current resiliency plan.