When tragedy strikes, it’s often the first responders—police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and others—who arrive first on the scene. While they work tirelessly to support our communities, who supports them when the emotional and psychological toll becomes too much?
Recently, several experts and advocates came together to highlight the importance of Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), trauma-informed care, and proactive mental health support for those on the front lines.
The Honorable Senator Cheryl Kagan moderated an informative session at the Beyond EAP: Critical Incident Stress Management as a Strategic Investment in Workforce Health.
Panel speakers included:
- Dr. George Everly, International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF)
- Sergeant Renee Plumb, Prince George’s County Police Department
- Kristin Klein, Director Safety Services, Chesapeake Employers Insurance Company
- The Honorable Zeke Cohen, Council President, Baltimore City
Dr. George Everly shared that Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) is specifically designed to help “those who help us.” He stressed that the most severe forms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are not just emotional disturbances—they are neurological injuries, often caused by intense or prolonged exposure to trauma.
Sergeant Renee Plumb discussed the real-world application of CISM in the field. She described the debriefing process that follows critical incidents, where officers and other responders can talk about what happened in a structured, supportive environment. The key message was the need to train as many officers as possible in peer support. While Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) exist, many of the providers do not have the experience or context to truly understand the types of trauma first responders face. Peer support fills that gap—offering connection, understanding, and empathy from those who have been there.
Kristin Klein spoke from the insurer’s perspective. She emphasized that support cannot wait. When an incident occurs, mental health services must be promptly provided to any employees who were involved in or witnessed the event. Quick access to counseling and support can prevent long-term psychological effects and shows employees that their well-being matters.
Baltimore City Council President Zeke Cohen provided a broader policy perspective. He shared that Baltimore City was the first to legislate trauma-informed care, a significant milestone in public health and community resilience. As part of this initiative, all city government employees receive trauma-informed training, ensuring that all employees understand how trauma impacts the brain and body.
The message from these experts is clear: trauma is an unavoidable part of public service, but we can and must do more to protect the mental health of those who serve. Whether it’s through CISM debriefings, peer support programs, or citywide trauma-informed policies, these interventions play a crucial role in promoting healing, resilience, and long-term wellness.
The session was on August 14th at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland.
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