Techniques to Mitigate Stress for First Responders Webinar

Please note: This training can be found on our Benchmark Learning Management System. To register, create your account or log in here, then either search for your desired training under “Available Training” or return to this page and click "Register" below to be taken directly to the event page. For more information or help, please refer to this page. 

The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS)  is pleased to announce the “Techniques to Mitigate Stress for First Responders” webinar.

Description:

This comprehensive workshop is designed to promote wellness and resilience among first responders. It covers a range of topics, including managing stress, understanding the autonomic nervous system, and recognizing signs of dysregulation. Participants will explore the impact of chronic stress on the brain and learn techniques such as the iRest Meditation protocol and the MELT method, along with breathing practices and Yin exercises, to create positive changes in both physical and mental well-being.

The workshop emphasizes improving sleep quality, supporting at-risk members, and addressing physical discomfort through non-pharmaceutical methods. Practical exercises, group activities, and discussions are incorporated to foster connection and wellness within the department. Overall, the course aims to build resilience and enhance the overall wellness of first responders.

Topics to be Addressed: 

• Overview of the Autonomic Nervous System and How It Affects Our Stress Response   
• Learn How to Spot Signs of Dysregulation in Oneself and Others to Promote a Healthier Culture   
• Breathing Practices to Manage the Autonomic Nervous System Response
• Stress Over Time on the Brain
• Introduction to iRest Meditation
• Identify First Responders Who Are at Risk and Provide Meaningful Support   
• Sleep as a Gateway to Openness
• How to Mitigate Physical Discomforts in a Non-Pharmaceutical Way   
• What is Fascia? How Does Connective Tissue Hold onto Stress and Create Pain Signaling
• MELT Method Ball Work (Hands and Feet)   
• Best Practices to Advance Wellness

Who should attend:

This training is open to all first responder groups, including, but not limited to, law enforcement, fire/EMS personnel, EMTs, dispatchers, and corrections personnel. Additionally, retired first responders, civilian peer support, and mental health clinicians who are culturally competent in first responder wellness are encouraged to attend.

Partial In-service Credit:

Partial In-service Credit (PIC) for Virginia law enforcement officers is NOT available for this webinar; however, a certificate of attendance will be provided upon completion.  

Training Time and Details: 

• The webinar will be held from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm  

• To access this virtual training, please follow the instructions below: Log into your Benchmark account
• Navigate to the left side of the home screen and click on "My Training" (any trainings you have registered for will appear here)
• Click on "Techniques to Mitigate Stress for First Responders Webinar"
• 15 minutes before the training is scheduled to begin the blue "Add to Calendar" button will change to "Attend the Meeting"
• Click "Attend the Meeting" to join the Zoom session

Cost and Registration:

There is no cost to attend this training; however, pre-registration is required.  

Please note that the DCJS registration system does not have the capacity to sort eligible from ineligible registrants. Therefore, anyone who registers will receive a confirmation. It is the responsibility of the DCJS-assigned course coordinator to review the roster and make a final determination on acceptance into the course. Denied registrants will be notified via the email address provided during registration.