In response to the challenging nature of their work, the Dallas County District Attorney's Office has initiated a comprehensive wellness program to address the impact of continuous stress exposure on the well-being of its staff. The program, named F1RST, aims to support the mental, physical, and emotional health of law enforcement members.
The initiative was developed by the DA's Office Wellness Committee, comprised of experienced prosecutors who understand the toll their profession can take on individuals. Witnessing distressing facts and images, prosecutors often find themselves navigating the emotional aftermath of heinous acts and balancing legal objectivity to secure justice.
Recognizing the need for resources tailored to their unique challenges, the Wellness Committee collaborated with F1RST to provide resiliency training to every member of the DA's Office. The training is carefully designed to address the specific challenges faced by attorneys, investigators, and support staff within the office.
The program also offers counseling and holistic treatment services through the Dallas County benefits program, ensuring access to culturally competent providers. In addition to mental health support, employees can access nutritionists, physical and occupational therapists, and recovery specialists.
District Attorney John Creuzot expressed his wholehearted support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of caring for the well-being of the office's dedicated public servants. He believes that by strengthening the mental health of the staff, the office will be better equipped to ensure justice is served in Dallas County.
While the training is not expected to eliminate the trauma experienced by staff, it provides a crucial outlet and equips employees with valuable tools to manage and openly discuss the effects of the hazardous aspects of their jobs. The administration hopes that by understanding the effects of vicarious trauma and chronic stress, providing resources to counteract these effects, and seeking ways to enhance the well-being of office members, they can become healthier and more effective in their pursuit of justice for the citizens of Dallas County.
ABOUT F1RST
F1RST (First Responder Stress & Trauma) is a Comprehensive Wellness Program addressing the impact of repeated stress exposure on a First Responder’s Overall Health and Performance. F1RST’s multidisciplinary team understands that the stress of first responder work is unique, and resiliency skills, support, and wellness training from a culturally competent professional are critical for overall health, quality of relationships, and occupational longevity.
