Nov 28, 20225 min read

National Mental Health Workshop

Provided by Chateau Recovery

Chateau Recovery is proud to announce that we are offering a 4-hour free mental health workshop across the country! This workshop will include vital information for on-the-job trauma education, addiction education, family support, mental and emotional awareness, and resources. Our hope is that this workshop will provide individuals with the necessary tools to become successful. If you are interested in attending one of our training, please visit our website for more information.

At Chateau Recovery, we understand the importance of peer support in an individual’s recovery journey. We believe that our 4-hour free national workshop can provide individuals with the necessary education to become successful and confident peer supporters. Our curriculum includes on-the-job trauma education, addiction education, family support, mental and emotional awareness, and resources. This comprehensive workshop will equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to be successful.

On-the-Job Trauma Education

This workshop provides vital information on how to effectively handle on-the-job trauma. We understand that our first responders are often exposed to traumatic events and are at risk for developing PTSD. Our peer support workshop will teach participants how to identify signs of trauma, provide resources for those who need help, and create a safe space for individuals to discuss their experiences. We will also discuss the importance of self-care and providing support. Additionally, we will cover topics such as stress management techniques and coping strategies. By the end of this training, participants should have an increased understanding of how to manage on-the-job trauma in a supportive manner.

At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will have an understanding of:

Recognizing and understanding the signs of trauma in yourself
Identify resources such as your EAP available for those struggling with trauma
Implement stress management techniques and coping strategies for yourself
Utilize self-care techniques

Addiction Education

First responders are at an increased risk of developing addictions due to their high-stress environments and exposure to traumatic events. It’s important for first responders to learn how to identify addiction in themselves and others so they can seek help from professionals or support groups.

It is also essential for fellow first responders to know how to properly intervene when they notice a colleague or peer exhibiting signs of addiction. Here are a few tips for intervening:

Talk to the person in private if possible, away from any judgmental peers.
Let them know you’re concerned and that you care.
Listen and be a non-judgmental supporter.
Acknowledge their feelings without enabling them to continue the addictive behavior.
Offer help or resources such as treatment centers, support groups, or online programs for addicts in recovery.

It is crucial for first responders to intervene when they observe a colleague or peer displaying signs of addiction. Addiction is a serious issue and can have devastating effects on individuals, families, and the community. With proper knowledge, education, and intervention techniques, first responders can help those struggling with addiction get the help they need to achieve recovery and find happiness in their lives.

Family Support for First Responders

Families of first responders are often faced with a unique set of challenges. As the spouse, partner, or parent of a first responder, it is essential to understand the specific stresses that come with this role and how you can support your family member through them.

One way to provide support to your family member is to be understanding of the risks they take daily and to provide emotional support. It can be especially scary when your partner, child, or parent is in the line of duty responding to an emergency situation. Make sure that you are a safe place for them to come back to after their shift ends and remember that sometimes they may need space as well.

Another way to support your family member is to familiarize yourself with their job and the organization they work for. Understanding the protocols and expectations of their position can help you provide appropriate advice, or just lend a listening ear if they need someone to talk to. Additionally, try going out on ride-alongs or attending department functions or events.

Finally, it is important to recognize the impact their job has on your family unit and be prepared to make adjustments if needed. As a first responder, they may have to take unexpected shifts or be called away at any time. This can put a strain on marital relationships, parenting responsibilities, and even other family commitments. Showing flexibility and understanding in these situations can go a long way in providing support.

The life of a first responder can be both physically and emotionally demanding, but with the right care and understanding from their family they have an important support system to lean on. Families are essential when it comes to providing emotional and practical assistance, so make sure to take the time to support your family member and show them how much they mean to you.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your family member is receiving the necessary support from home while they serve as a first responder. Remember, families, are essential in providing emotional and practical assistance for those who dedicate their lives to serving and protecting. Your family member will thank you for being there in their time of need!

Mental and Emotional Awareness as a Peer Support Member

As a peer support member, it is important to be aware of your own mental and emotional needs. Being able to empathize with others in distress can often be emotionally draining, so it’s essential that you take care of yourself first. The skills needed to ensure your well-being are just as important as the knowledge you have about the issue you are helping someone with.

Here are a few simple steps to help maintain your mental and emotional well-being:

Take breaks – make sure to take regular breaks from peer support activities. Walk away, have a cup of tea or coffee, call a friend, or do something else that takes your mind off the task at hand.
Set boundaries – decide in advance what type of support you will offer, for how long and the contact details you are willing to share. Be direct with individuals about these limits when needed.
Know your limits – be aware of both your strengths and limitations while providing peer support and don’t hesitate to refer someone to a professional if the issue is beyond your scope.
Practice self-care – take time for yourself and do activities that you enjoy and help you relax. Exercise, journaling, spending time in nature or talking with friends are all great ways to destress.
Seek support – don’t be afraid to reach out for professional help if you feel like you are struggling with the emotional toll of providing peer support.

Remember to take care of yourself first and foremost. Prioritizing your own mental and emotional well-being will help ensure that you are able to provide the best possible support to those who need it.

Thank you for your dedication to providing peer support - every bit of help makes a difference!

DISCLAIMER: This is not a Peer Support program accredited by any entity or state. This workshop is designed as an educational experience regarding mental health. If you would like to move forward and continue your education, please reach out to someone in your department about attending an accredited training such as The All Badges, All Uniforms, All Scrubs - 40-Hour, Colorado P.O.S.T approved Peer Support Academy provided by First Responder Trauma Counselors