Blue Paz First Responder Health and Wellness Conference

It was an honor to attend the 2nd annual Blue Paz Health and Wellness Conference this year! Dr. Dara Rampersad, a first responder specific Psychologist and founder of Blue Paz First Responder Services, hosted a day of First Responder specific education on PTSD and Suicide Intervention, Emotional Intelligence, Health and Nutrition.

WOW! Dr. Dara’s opening presentation was outstanding, highlighting the specifics on First Responder Post-Traumatic Stress, Suicidal Ideation, and Recovery. He gives a simplified clinical understanding that really illustrates the reasons as to why first responders are more likely to commit suicide in comparison to the general public.

The forum offered fantastic sessions including First Responder Addiction and Recovery, Emotional Intelligence, Stress Eradication Tactics, and an engaging first responder panel about the Road to Resiliency.

It is amazing how far we have come, as far as police, fire, and EMS agencies within the last decade. Finally, we are softening the stigma that surrounds Post-Traumatic Stress and we are starting to really talk about the importance of resiliency programs and training.

The panel of police, fire, and EMS providers that shared their stories was truly moving. Independently they each found different ways to rebound from the devastating hardships of the job. Many, are not as lucky. As leaders in the public safety industry, it up to us to educate recruits from day one about resiliency and the resources available to them. After all, our people are our biggest asset and we want them to live long into a healthy and happy retirement.