The Power of Peer Support: Low-Cost Peer Support Training Available This Fall

A guest post by LMCIT Public Safety Program Coordinator Lora Setter, lsetter@lmc.org

“When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary. The people we trust with that important talk can help us know that we are not alone.” - Fred Rogers 

This quote from Mr. Rogers captures the spirit of public safety peer support. Because of the nature of their job duties, public safety professionals see and do things that are outside of the normal human experience. They are routinely exposed to trauma and death, which can take its toll on their mental health. Talking to a specially trained peer, can provide the psychological first aid needed to minimize or help negate the impact of those experiences. 

Peer support personnel are trained in specific knowledge areas such as active listening, confidentiality, suicide prevention, chemical dependency behaviors, signs and symptoms of PTSD, basic wellness, and positive relationship-building. Talking to a trained peer can provide trusted communication, encouragement, and an increased understanding of the emotional impact of critical incidents and traumatic events. When needed, peer support team members can afford colleagues with resources and referrals for a higher level of support before a psychological illness may become career-ending. 

Public safety departments are facing hiring and retention challenges, which make it even more important to create supportive, caring organizations that focus on employee wellness. The League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust (LMCIT) encourages public safety entities to invest in the vital resource of peer support in the prevention, recognition, and support of public safety mental health. To help promote peer support initiatives, LMCIT has created a Peer Support Advisory Board made up of police, fire, and mental health professionals. The board provides recommendations and assists with the prioritization of LMCIT initiatives regarding peer support. 

One of the Board’s initiatives is to provide peer support training to public safety entities across the state. To aid in that initiative, this fall the LMCIT is hosting Peer Support Training at three locations: 

• Nov. 1-2 — Cottage Grove
• Nov. 3-4 — Marshall
• Nov. 29-30 — Waite Park

Fee: $100 for League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust members; $450 for non-members (fee includes lunch and refreshments)

A survey of public safety leaders across Minnesota showed that both police and fire leaders view peer support programs as a helpful public safety mental health strategy. They see the power in peer support. 

For more information about this fall’s peer support training and to register, visit the League’s Peer Support Training webpage.