Anne Runkle – The Oakland Press, Sterling Heights, Mich.
Two Oakland County organizations are partnering to offer an online community conversation about the effects of trauma and substance use disorder in first responders.
The event will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13. You can watch and participate on the Farmington SAFE (Suicide Awareness for Everyone) Facebook page, https://tinyurl.com/SAFELiveStream.
Farmington SAFE is partnering with CARES (Community. Action. Resources. Empowerment. Services) of Farmington Hills, an organization that runs a food pantry and provides other services.
The event is designed for police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, physicians, nurses, veterans and others who may face high-stress situations like violence, disasters and car crashes.
“To cope with the emotional toll, some may turn to substance use as a form of self-medication. This can result in a cycle of dependency and ultimately worsen mental health over time, affecting both personal lives and professional performance. Addressing mental health and providing supportive resources are essential to help first responders manage trauma and avoid harmful coping mechanisms,” according to a release from Farmington SAFE.
“In my decade as a paramedic, I experienced the suicide of one of my peers, saw the damage done to relationships, and know at least three people who died of substance issues – all caused by job-related stress,” said Ken Massey, chairman of the boards for Farmington SAFE and CARES of Farmington Hills.
Presentations will begin at 6 p.m., with a question and answer period following via phone and text.
Commander Shane Wash of the Farmington Public Safety Department will host the discussion.
Frank Rubino, a psychologist and former police officer who specializes in law enforcement trauma and substance use disorder, will give the keynote presentation.
Dr. Robyn Floyd, behavioral health integrated program director, Veterans Health Administration, will also speak.
With a theme of “Let’s Talk About It,” Farmington SAFE brings together community members, leaders and mental health experts to remove the stigma surrounding depression and provide a connection to available resources.
The public is welcome to attend the group’s meetings at 6 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at Farmington Hills City Hall, 31555 W. 11 Mile Road.
For more information, visit https://farmingtonsafe.com/ or call 734-834-3156.
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