Working in corrections can be very stressful. Studies by F.E. Cheek indicate that the life expectancy of a correctional officer is only 59 years, compared to 74 years for the average American. Correctional staff also experience high levels of alcohol abuse, ulcers, heart attacks, high blood pressure, depression and divorce. Although correctional staff always will endure stress on and off the job, the negative consequences do not need to be so alarmingly high.