Suicide Prevention for First Responders

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Description:

The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services is pleased to offer the class, “Suicide Prevention for First Responders".

This training program covers suicide statistics, interventions, and the impact of depression and alcohol. It addresses suicide within public safety, the culture of first responders, and the need for transformation in public safety practices, as well as recognizing warning signs.

Participants will understand the potential long-term effects of trauma on first responders and recognize how and why trauma may lead to behavioral dysfunction such as substance abuse, aggression, and suicide. Participants will learn the impact healthy habits have in mitigating the effects of trauma, as well as mental health resources and confidential avenues to seek help, including peer support programs, employee assistance programs (EAPs), and specialized mental health providers.

Topics to be addressed:

• Understanding Suicide as it Relates to the First Responder Community: Introduction to the prevalence of suicide among first responders, including statistics, risk factors, and common stressors unique to the profession.
• Recognizing Warning Signs and Risk Factors: Identification of behavioral, emotional, and physiological indicators of suicide risk in oneself and fellow responders, with an emphasis on early detection and intervention.
• Effective Stress Mitigation Techniques and Wellness Protocols: Understanding the effects of mindfulness/meditation, physical activity, and healthy lifestyle choices on a first responder’s ability to mitigate stress.
• Crisis Intervention and De-escalation Techniques: Crisis intervention strategies and de-escalation techniques.
• Promoting Organizational Support and Cultural Change: Strategies for fostering a supportive organizational culture that prioritizes mental health, reduces stigma, and encourages open dialogue about stress, trauma, and emotional well-being.

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, and Meals:

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

Training Time and Details:

Check-in will begin at 7:30 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.