In this conversation, Dave Thompson interviews Liz Pol, a Chicago police officer with expertise in trauma and suicide among first responders. They discuss the prevalence of suicide in the law enforcement world and the need for proactive measures to address mental health. They also explore how trauma affects individuals in various professions, such as retail and healthcare. Liz emphasizes the importance of communication and psychoeducation in creating awareness and providing resources for mental wellness. They discuss the role of leadership in creating a safe space for employees to share th

• Suicide is of high risk among first responders, and it is important to address the root causes and provide proactive measures for mental wellness.
• Trauma and mental health issues are not limited to the law enforcement world; individuals in various professions, such as retail and healthcare, can also be affected.
• Creating awareness and providing psychoeducation about trauma and mental health can help individuals understand their own responses and seek appropriate resources.
• Leadership plays a crucial role in creating a safe space for employees to share their struggles and promoting mental wellness in the workplace.
• Training and protocols are needed to address mental health issues and provide practical tools for individuals to navigate and cope with trauma.
• Increase awareness and understanding of suicide among first responders
• Break the cycle of business as usual after a suicide occurs
• Open conversations and training are essential to prevent suicide
• Identify and address risk factors and triggers for suicide
• Promote protective factors and support systems
• Debriefings and self-care are crucial after traumatic incidents
• Seek resources and support for suicide prevention

eir struggles and the need for training and protocols to address mental health issues. The conversation with Liz Pol focused on the topic of suicide prevention among first responders. Liz discussed the lack of awareness and understanding surrounding suicide, and the need for a proactive approach to address the issue. She emphasized the importance of breaking the cycle of business as usual after a suicide occurs and the need for open conversations and training to increase awareness and knowledge. Liz also highlighted the risk factors and triggers for suicide among first responders, such as stress, trauma, interpersonal relationship issues, and sleep deprivation. She emphasized the need for protective factors and support systems to prevent suicide. Liz discussed the challenges of sharing information with loved ones without placing blame and the importance of debriefings and self-care in the aftermath of traumatic incidents. She provided resources and encouraged individuals to reach out for help and support.

For more resources on this topic or to contact Liz directly, visit About Me | Resilient Heroes (resilient-heroes.com)

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