Guardians of the Mind: Strategies for Suicide Prevention in First Responders

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Course Description:

The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services is pleased to offer, “Guardians of the Mind: Strategies for Suicide Prevention in First Responders.”

Join us for an essential and interactive training designed specifically for first responders, where we address the critical issue of suicide within public safety roles. This course, offered by NOTA Fitness, aims to empower participants with knowledge, practical skills, and effective strategies to recognize and prevent suicide among colleagues and themselves. Through cultural insights, intervention techniques, and interactive segments, participants will be equipped to transform their departments and promote mental health resilience.

Topics to be addressed:

• Suicide Statistics and Interventions
• Suicide in Public Safety
• First Responder Culture
• Transforming Public Safety
• Depression Realities
• Alcohol Use and Warning Signs

Objectives:

• Recognize the prevalence and impact of suicide within public safety roles and recognize the impact on individuals and departments.
• Identify early warning signs and risk factors of depression, substance abuse, and potential suicidal ideation in themselves and colleagues.
• Develop practical intervention strategies to support colleagues, transform department culture, and promote mental health.

Who should attend?

This training is open to all first responder groups, including, but not limited to, law enforcement, fire/EMS, EMTs, dispatchers, and corrections. 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 will be available.

Travel, Lodging & Meals:

Participants are responsible for their transportation, lodging arrangements, and expenses.

Training Time & Details:

Check-in will begin at 7:45 am
The course will be held from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

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 director to review the roster and make a final determination on acceptance into the course. Registrants not accepted will be notified via the email address provided during registration.