2024 ANNUAL REPORT - Final

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EMERGENCY SERVICES

Behavioral Health Program (continued)

Peer Support

The DFRS Peer Support Program is an organized, comprehensive, and confidential system that provides stress management education, support, and crisis intervention services. The Peer Support Team (PST) is comprised of trained Peer Supporters who are well-respected, trusted members of DFRS. The team receives support and clinical oversight from the DFRS BHC. All members of the PST have completed an intensive peer support training program delivered by the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF), as well as crisis intervention and suicide awareness training. All peer support interactions are confidential, and team members are required to sign a yearly confidentiality agreement.

Program Goals : Frederick County’s Peer Support Program exists to educate, promote, and facilitate for the behavioral wellness of members and their families.

Mission : To collaborate, develop, and implement behavioral health awareness. Prevention, intervention, and post crisis strategies will provide members and their families easy, accessible, continuous, and confidential sources of information. Vision : We recognize the unique environment and situations experienced by all our members. Our Vision is to support a positive nurturing culture that promotes wholeness in behavioral wellness. Breaking down traditional stigmas through education, support, and confidentiality will improve the quality and longevity of life for members and families.

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