Mental Health and Wellness for First Responders

First responders serve on the front lines of their communities and frequently encounter intense, traumatic situations that can have significant psychological effects. This comprehensive course is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to manage these experiences, maintain your mental well-being, and sustain your ability to serve effectively over the long term.

The course examines mental health and wellness across the first responder community, with particular attention to the effects of PTSD on both active-duty and retired personnel. Participants will benefit from a supportive, interactive learning environment where they can explore and address these vital issues in depth.

Beyond traditional training, this program offers substantial value for law enforcement agencies seeking to enhance personnel retention and overall wellness. You will acquire practical tools and strategies that your organization can implement to reduce burnout, prevent unnecessary early retirement and terminations, and ultimately lower the risk of tragic outcomes such as suicide.

Course Topics

• Mental health and wellness fundamentals for first responders
• PTSD and its effects on active and retired first responders
• Personal accounts and experiences related to PTSD
• Identifying PTSD symptoms in yourself and your colleagues
• Evidence-based coping strategies and stress management techniques
• Self-care approaches tailored to the first responder lifestyle
• Current treatment options and available services for PTSD
• Establishing peer support and mental wellness initiatives within law enforcement agencies
• Accessing and leveraging community mental health resources
• Real-world case studies and scenarios (note: graphic content included)

Target Audience

This course is designed for law enforcement officers, military police, and other public safety professionals.

Course Details

Duration: 24 hours

Dates: March 1-3, 2027

Time: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Location: IPTM - University of North Florida, Adam W. Herbert University Center, 12000 Alumni Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224

City: Jacksonville

State: Florida

Zip: 32224

County: Duval County

Fee: $695.00

Instructor: Ann Dorn

Important Notes

This course includes realistic scenarios and graphic imagery to provide authentic context regarding the challenges faced by first responders. While the instructors are not medical doctors, they have received specialized training in trauma facilitation through the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF).