EMS Health and Wellness Manager City of Virginia Beach Williamsburg, Virginia
Emergency telecommunicators operate under intense pressure, often with little recognition of the toll it takes. This session addresses the growing impact of substance use disorders (SUDs) within emergency communications—exploring how chronic stress, emotional fatigue, and exposure to trauma contribute to increased risk.
Through a trauma-informed lens, we’ll examine strategies to reduce stigma, promote peer support, and enhance access to treatment resources. Attendees will gain actionable tools to foster a culture of wellness, advocate for their teams, and support long-term resilience across their centers.
Learning Objectives:
At the culmination of this session, participants will be able to identify the prevalence and primary contributing factors of substance use disorders (SUDs) among emergency telecommunicators, using data and case examples to recognize key risk indicators.
At the culmination of this session, participants will be able to analyze the impact of stigma and cultural barriers on seeking help for SUDs and apply strategies to foster open communication and reduce stigma within their organizations.
At the culmination of this session, participants will be able to design and implement practical interventions, such as peer-support programs and wellness initiatives, to address SUDs and support the mental health of emergency communication professionals.
.jpg "Jesalyn Moore, LCSW, LSATP, CAADC photo")