This blog was taken as an excerpt from our most recent webinar with Jed Hyland
In my work with various first responder departments, I’ve seen a wide spectrum of engagement with wellness and peer support systems. Some departments haven’t even begun the wellness conversation, while others resemble pro sports franchises with the resources they provide. These include embedded physicians, clinicians, direct access to EAP and MAP, internal physical therapy, wellness coordinators, and even support for things like test anxiety. It’s incredible to see these “wellness oases” being built, offering a variety of resources for first responders.
However, there’s a recurring question: Why aren’t more first responders utilizing these resources? The answer lies in the barriers: stigma, fear of job loss, and restrictive SOPs. Even in departments with world-class wellness resources, these hurdles persist. Peer support programs are perfectly positioned to break down these barriers and create a culture where first responders feel safe to engage in mental health and wellness.
Why Peer Support Works
The power of peer support lies in its approachability and familiarity. According to statistics, 75% of first responders who used peer support found it helpful, 80% would use it again, and 90% would recommend it to others. Why? Because peer supporters are known and trusted members of the community. They can navigate the nuanced challenges and unspoken rules within their own ranks.
Peer supporters can help responders feel more comfortable seeking help by being proactive, approachable, and integrated into daily operations. This is what we call active peer support—showing up at briefings, debriefings, diffusions, and being a consistent presence in the station. But there’s also passive peer support, which is equally important. This is about showing up authentically and vulnerably. It’s about being present, telling your own story, and demonstrating that it’s okay to use resources.
A Reimagining of Peer Support Roles
To build a sustainable system, we need to expand the roles of peer supporters. Beyond crisis intervention, peer supporters can serve as wellness ambassadors, guiding their peers to available resources, navigating the shifting landscape of mental health and wellness tools, and helping with logistics.
Peer supporters are often at the frontlines of connectivity, a core component of a resilient wellness system. Research shows that the health and wellness of a community are the most significant predictors of individual well-being. Social fitness is also vital, and peer supporters play a crucial role in fostering this connectivity.
Proactive Strategies for Connectivity
We can’t just wait for responders to come to us; we need to go out and meet them where they are. This means being more proactive, like attending briefings, making station visits, and utilizing apps like PeerConnect to keep everyone engaged. Even organizing simple things like recognition ceremonies can build camaraderie and a sense of belonging, essential elements of a supportive community.
Inclusive outreach is another critical area. How many peer support teams are actively connecting with retirees or spouses? These groups have unique needs and perspectives, and engaging them can strengthen the entire support network.
The SHIELD Method: A Framework for Sustainability
Building a resilient peer support system requires a long-term, sustainable approach. The SHIELD method—Sustainable, Holistic, Inclusive, Empowering, Leadership-Driven, Durable—offers a framework for success:
- Sustainable: Peer support requires continuous renewal. Recruit and train new members regularly to keep the team dynamic and prevent burnout.
- Holistic: Peer support should cover the entire wellness spectrum, integrating mental, physical, and emotional health.
- Inclusive: Reflect the diversity of your department by including civilians, retirees, and all demographics in your support efforts.
- Empowering: Equip first responders to take control of their own well-being before helping others, much like the oxygen mask analogy—put yours on first, then assist others.
- Leadership-Driven: Effective peer support needs strong leadership, but also delegation to empower the team as a whole.
- Durable: Programs need to be built with longevity in mind, ensuring they remain relevant and effective over time.
Overcoming Challenges in Peer Support
Peer support isn’t without its challenges. Gossip, vague selection criteria, stagnant teams, and over-reliance on a few individuals can hinder success. Overcoming these hurdles requires clear communication, inclusive team-building, and regular training.
Additionally, peer support teams must integrate with clinical resources for a holistic approach. We need to move away from a checkbox mentality—where peer support programs are created to satisfy leadership without genuine commitment—and instead focus on creating systems that truly benefit first responders.
A sustainable and resilient peer support system is a constant work in progress. It requires ongoing recruitment, renewal, and adjustment to remain effective. The key is understanding that connectivity is at the heart of wellness. By fostering both active and passive peer support, peer supporters can help first responders overcome barriers, access resources, and thrive in a community that truly cares for their well-being.
Let’s build a peer support system that isn’t just reactive but proactive, isn’t just tactical but strategic. A system that, in its essence, is about connecting people and fostering a culture of wellness.If you are interested in learning more about Jed’s work or if you would like to get in touch with him directly, please visit: nicolettiflater.com