The life of a private investigator isn’t as glamorous as it’s portrayed in the movies. In reality, there are aspects of the job that are unhealthy, and there are real consequences to having that cup of java.

Extreme temperatures

Depending on weather conditions, sometimes you get very cold or very hot. Most people cope with temperature in their car by rolling the windows all the way down or cranking up the air conditioning.

These options could draw attention to the investigator in some situations.

Uncomfortable need to urinate

You’re sleepy, so you drink coffee. You’re hot, so you drink water. See where this is going?

Depending on the amount of fluids consumed and duration of an assignment, you will feel the need to urinate. You have fewer options than most.

You often don’t have the luxury of visiting a pit stop or gas station. You need to remain in your vehicle. This narrows the scope of what you can do to the confines of your car.

Demanding work schedule 

The hours can be varied and demanding. You may work long hours, sometimes at odd times, such as late at night, and early in the morning for long periods of time.

Your client, the needs of the investigation and the subject’s schedule dictate your hours. These hours can be tremendously difficult do adapt to.

Dangerous situations 

A subject may become outraged if they notice you during surveillance. They may react in an aggressive or violent way.

Also, like other jobs that require a significant amount of time on the road, it’s possible to get into a car accident. And, you don’t have the luxury of merely focusing on road safety.

Multi-tasking while on the road has inherent risks. You need to effectively follow your subject, while navigating traffic and observe your subject and environment, while intermittently taking notes and videotaping.

Unhealthy conditions 

Private investigators face conditions that are detrimental to their health.

They lack exercise, breath in exhaust fumes, sit for long periods of time, and suffer emotionally from isolation and stressful situations.

This can lead to weight gain, back pain, depression, anxiety and obesity, asthma, and cardiovascular disease. 

Losing a subject 

Even the best private investigators will sometimes lose a subject. The subject may run a light, drive recklessly, break laws, or disappear into a crowded arena making it difficult, dangerous, or illegal to follow.

Here is a list of options that private investigators have to mitigate some of these challenges and lead a healthy lifestyle.

Photo Source: Flickr (man in front of car), Flickr (cold hands), Flickr (water bottle) Flickr (nodding off), Flickr (angry driver), Flickr (man snacking in car), Flickr (view from in car)