EMS Health and Wellness Manager City of Virginia Beach Williamsburg, Virginia
A Frontline Approach: Addressing SUDs in Emergency Communications highlights the unique challenges telecommunicators face in managing substance use disorders (SUDs) due to high-stress environments and emotional exhaustion. This initiative focuses on raising awareness, reducing stigma, and advocating for targeted education and peer support. By providing accessible treatment resources and fostering a culture of understanding, it empowers emergency communication professionals to prioritize their mental health and resilience while addressing the barriers that hinder seeking help. This approach equips agencies with strategies to support their workforce and promote long-term wellness within the emergency communications field.
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.
