Wayne State University has launched a new support program specifically for first responders to address the mental health challenges they face. The program, called Frontline Strong Together, is a free and confidential 24/7 counseling service designed to assist police officers, firefighters, and other emergency personnel coping with trauma and stress related to their work.
During a recent bipartisan roundtable discussion at Detroit Police Headquarters, Michigan lawmakers and police officials highlighted the urgent need for mental health resources for first responders. Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard emphasized that officer suicides now outnumber line-of-duty deaths, revealing the significant mental health crisis within law enforcement.
Retired Detroit Assistant Police Chief Steve Dolunt, who served for over 30 years, shared his own experiences with the toll of the job. “I had five officers shot one night, and one lost their life,” Dolunt recalled. He stressed the importance of counseling, acknowledging that he initially thought he did not need support. However, he recognized the necessity of mental health care for himself and his colleagues.
The program at Wayne State features innovative approaches to therapy, including virtual reality technology that helps first responders confront and manage their anxiety and PTSD. For instance, individuals fearful of dogs can experience a simulated environment where they interact with virtual dogs, allowing them to gradually overcome their fears without real-world risks. This type of exposure therapy aims to create a safe space for first responders to face their traumas and develop coping strategies.
Scott Taylor, a former Warren Police Officer now involved in the counseling initiative, pointed out the stark difference in trauma exposure. “The average person encounters 8 to 10 traumatic events in their lifetime, while a first responder may encounter that many in a single month or even during one shift,” he noted. This significant exposure highlights the critical need for immediate and accessible mental health support.
The Frontline Strong Together program aims to provide first responders with the tools necessary to manage their mental health effectively. As Steve Dolunt stated, “You have to accept that you are not invincible,” emphasizing the importance of seeking help and addressing mental health challenges head-on. As the pressures on law enforcement continue to grow, programs like this are essential in providing the support that first responders need to maintain their mental well-being.
