Read Lou's article in the Georgia Chiefs Magazine Winter 2022 edition.
| GA Chiefs Article |
SUICIDE IS INCREASING!
Headlines nationwide are sounding alarms. Sadly, the epidemic of suicide takes a disproportional number of First Responder lives each year, with more losses from suicide than line of duty deaths.
AFM 911 is the First Responder Division of Armed Forces Mission. The two-fold objective of AFM 911 is first, to reduce suicide in the First Responder community and secondly, train Responders in the skills of suicide intervention for the communities they serve.
The Listen Learn Lead model of suicide intervention is approved for POST credit in the state of Georgia and South Carolina. Many of the more than 21,000 individuals that have participated in the training are from the First Responder Community.
AFM 911 is the First Responder Division of Armed Forces Mission. The two-fold objective of AFM 911 is first, to reduce suicide in the First Responder community and secondly, train Responders in the skills of suicide intervention for the communities they serve.
The Listen Learn Lead model of suicide intervention is approved for POST credit in the state of Georgia and South Carolina. Many of the more than 21,000 individuals that have participated in the training are from the First Responder Community.
Listen Learn Lead is available in a 3 hour online format and a 4 to 5 hour in class format.
Clients served include hundreds of First Responder Agencies, GAACP, ILEETA, Homeland Security,
US ARMY, US AIR FORCE, Homeland Security, hospitals, schools, and universities.
Clients served include hundreds of First Responder Agencies, GAACP, ILEETA, Homeland Security,
US ARMY, US AIR FORCE, Homeland Security, hospitals, schools, and universities.
Why Listen Learn Lead
Listen Learn Lead Suicide Intervention Training has a two-fold purpose in working with the First Responder community. First, we provide world-class training to enhance the skill set of the First Responder in working with the public they serve. Secondly, and of equal importance we are working to build a culture of health within the First Responder community that reduces the personal risk of suicide for these brave public servants that work tirelessly for all of us.
Suicide is a subject that sits squarely within the daily realm of first responders. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline receives more than two million calls each year, local 911 Centers directly receive millions more. Only a handful of states have statewide mobile crisis teams that are able to send clinicians to assist. At best, the majority of states have localized services which are often supported through non-profit volunteers. Even in states that do have statewide clinician led mobile crisis, up to 5% of calls are referred back to 911. As a result, in many instances, it is the First Responder that is put in the position of assisting individuals in crisis. As an example, in 2015 Fort Collins, CO First Responders responded to more than 800 suicide calls. On a national level we can easily understand that calling 911 when a loved one or friend is suicidal does not necessarily mean that those who respond to a crisis are trained in proper protocols of suicide intervention.
The National Emergency Number Association (NENA) released data in October 2021 that details the dire situation of the current 911 system. Data provided by 911 Centers across 27 states revealed the following: Few responding call centers have staff with behavioral health crisis training to inform how they navigate 911 calls and dispatch responses. Less than half have comprehensive mobile crisis response teams (MCTs). Most 911 centers in the study do not use standardized tools to identify calls related to a person in behavioral health crisis. Furthermore, current high rates of turnover among telecommunicators may mean that in 911 call centers that rely on the experience of call-takers and dispatchers, lack of access to clinicians and standardized protocols may be particularly challenging. Most 911 telecommunicators in the sample have not received specialized crisis training and 1 in 5 respondents reported having virtually no crisis-related resources. While there is growing evidence of the benefits of specialized training and staffing to oversee mental health emergencies, a lack of resources has been identified as a barrier to successful outcomes in some jurisdictions. Proper training is the key variable that determines how 911 calls are managed, whether the incident ends safely, the person in crisis is arrested, or the person is connected to appropriate care.
The specific topic that are addressed in the Listen Learn Lead Suicide Intervention Training model speak directly to the work of the First Responder in their service to community. Surveys of thousands of First Responders completing L3 training have unanimously responded STRONG YES to the question – Does L3 training instill skills in the First Responder so that when called upon they are ready, willing, and able to render aid that will result in better outcomes for those they serve?
L3 principles that strengthen First Responder service to the community are also the vital key to building a culture of health within the First Responder community. The suicide rate among First Responders is typically 38% higher than the community at large. Access to lethal means, personal domestic issues, financial issues, and health related issues play a part in this increased risk. Additionally, First Responders carry the weight of dealing with those they serve. 1 in 4 dispatchers and 1 in 3 Firefighters and Police officers suffer from PTSD. According to the Police Executive Research Forum, “There is no body of research or playbook for officer suicide. Agency leaders and officers often struggle to address the suicide inside their organizations and often do not know what to say publicly when a suicide does occur.”
The foundational core values and every learning objective of the L3 model is intended to help First Responders help those they serve while also instilling the importance of helping their fellow First Responders. L3 Core value #1 states “Suicide is not the result of wanting to die.” Many First Responders fail to understand the power of intervention. They do not realize that statistically intervention typically means 94% of those at risk will never die by suicide. But they must be willing to intervene. Intervention saves lives. At Armed Forces Mission we have experienced the power of intervention more than 1600 times in our direct work with those at risk. The second core value, “Suicide is a Thought” helps First Responders to normalize the discussion. Suicide is a normal thought in challenging situations, but like any thought we do not have to act upon it. But we can talk about. The mere act of engaging in conversation is most often the first step for moving the at risk First Responder back to a place of hope and safety.
The last core value of the L3 model is the most powerful. “It’s not what you look at that matters. It is what you see.” Many intervention models put an inordinate focus on signs of suicide. However, many times there are no signs, especially among First Responders who by nature often feel that admission of suicidal thought appears weak and vulnerable. This final core value is woven through every aspect of the remainder of training. First Responders are taught to look beyond signs to circumstances that have the potential to negatively impact personal resilience. As Sgt Renee McCullum stated, “L3 has helped our officers see risk when there are no signs that shout risk.”
The primary learning objective of the L3 model states, “Participants will gain the skills and confidence to render aid to individuals at risk of suicide.” While First Responders are trained in worse case scenarios, many struggle to know how to deal with such scenarios in their personal lives. L3 helps them understand how to seek help when they need it and help others when they see it. In many regards L3 is more than a crisis model, it is a Pre-crisis model. By helping their colleague before the escalation to crisis the one at risk is able to get the help they need and often times avoid measures that might further increase risk due to suspension, hospitalization, department stigma and other negative outcomes.
The supplemental learning objectives further strengthen intervention skills. First Responders learn how toxic work cultures increase risk of suicide and the importance of developing a culture that addresses such issues. They are able to identify the myths that impact cultural mindset within the department and the community they serve. The need for building rapport is highlighted, along with an examination of cultural differences that challenge ability to intervene. Finally, learned skills are assessed in various intensive simulation exercises that challenge class participants to engage the person at risk. These simulations hone the skillset further and strengthen the LEAD portion of the model as the participant works through the steps of transitioning to safety.
Every community depends on the services of First Responders, yet they are humans too that carry their own burdens even as they seek to help others with theirs. Reducing the stigma of seeking help is the final discussion in the L3 training, and perhaps the most important discussion for First Responders. Listen Learn Lead is a vital resource strengthening the First Responder community for their sakes and the sake of the community they serve. If first responders do not get the help they need and deserve, who will answer the call to YOUR next emergency?
A 2017 AFM survey of 500 L3 trained officers revealed that 95% had never been trained in suicide intervention prior to L3. These were not rookies, but seasoned officers; three were retiring before the end of the year. Thankfully, most agencies are now more fully addressing this training need because they are AWARE there is a need for such training. AFM has experienced a tremendous uptick from agencies requesting L3 training. It is a move in the right direction as agencies look to provide training that directly impacts the wellbeing of the agency and their communities. Armed Forces Mission and the Listen Learn Lead training are leading the way as a vital component in the mission to save lives.
Suicide is a subject that sits squarely within the daily realm of first responders. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline receives more than two million calls each year, local 911 Centers directly receive millions more. Only a handful of states have statewide mobile crisis teams that are able to send clinicians to assist. At best, the majority of states have localized services which are often supported through non-profit volunteers. Even in states that do have statewide clinician led mobile crisis, up to 5% of calls are referred back to 911. As a result, in many instances, it is the First Responder that is put in the position of assisting individuals in crisis. As an example, in 2015 Fort Collins, CO First Responders responded to more than 800 suicide calls. On a national level we can easily understand that calling 911 when a loved one or friend is suicidal does not necessarily mean that those who respond to a crisis are trained in proper protocols of suicide intervention.
The National Emergency Number Association (NENA) released data in October 2021 that details the dire situation of the current 911 system. Data provided by 911 Centers across 27 states revealed the following: Few responding call centers have staff with behavioral health crisis training to inform how they navigate 911 calls and dispatch responses. Less than half have comprehensive mobile crisis response teams (MCTs). Most 911 centers in the study do not use standardized tools to identify calls related to a person in behavioral health crisis. Furthermore, current high rates of turnover among telecommunicators may mean that in 911 call centers that rely on the experience of call-takers and dispatchers, lack of access to clinicians and standardized protocols may be particularly challenging. Most 911 telecommunicators in the sample have not received specialized crisis training and 1 in 5 respondents reported having virtually no crisis-related resources. While there is growing evidence of the benefits of specialized training and staffing to oversee mental health emergencies, a lack of resources has been identified as a barrier to successful outcomes in some jurisdictions. Proper training is the key variable that determines how 911 calls are managed, whether the incident ends safely, the person in crisis is arrested, or the person is connected to appropriate care.
The specific topic that are addressed in the Listen Learn Lead Suicide Intervention Training model speak directly to the work of the First Responder in their service to community. Surveys of thousands of First Responders completing L3 training have unanimously responded STRONG YES to the question – Does L3 training instill skills in the First Responder so that when called upon they are ready, willing, and able to render aid that will result in better outcomes for those they serve?
L3 principles that strengthen First Responder service to the community are also the vital key to building a culture of health within the First Responder community. The suicide rate among First Responders is typically 38% higher than the community at large. Access to lethal means, personal domestic issues, financial issues, and health related issues play a part in this increased risk. Additionally, First Responders carry the weight of dealing with those they serve. 1 in 4 dispatchers and 1 in 3 Firefighters and Police officers suffer from PTSD. According to the Police Executive Research Forum, “There is no body of research or playbook for officer suicide. Agency leaders and officers often struggle to address the suicide inside their organizations and often do not know what to say publicly when a suicide does occur.”
The foundational core values and every learning objective of the L3 model is intended to help First Responders help those they serve while also instilling the importance of helping their fellow First Responders. L3 Core value #1 states “Suicide is not the result of wanting to die.” Many First Responders fail to understand the power of intervention. They do not realize that statistically intervention typically means 94% of those at risk will never die by suicide. But they must be willing to intervene. Intervention saves lives. At Armed Forces Mission we have experienced the power of intervention more than 1600 times in our direct work with those at risk. The second core value, “Suicide is a Thought” helps First Responders to normalize the discussion. Suicide is a normal thought in challenging situations, but like any thought we do not have to act upon it. But we can talk about. The mere act of engaging in conversation is most often the first step for moving the at risk First Responder back to a place of hope and safety.
The last core value of the L3 model is the most powerful. “It’s not what you look at that matters. It is what you see.” Many intervention models put an inordinate focus on signs of suicide. However, many times there are no signs, especially among First Responders who by nature often feel that admission of suicidal thought appears weak and vulnerable. This final core value is woven through every aspect of the remainder of training. First Responders are taught to look beyond signs to circumstances that have the potential to negatively impact personal resilience. As Sgt Renee McCullum stated, “L3 has helped our officers see risk when there are no signs that shout risk.”
The primary learning objective of the L3 model states, “Participants will gain the skills and confidence to render aid to individuals at risk of suicide.” While First Responders are trained in worse case scenarios, many struggle to know how to deal with such scenarios in their personal lives. L3 helps them understand how to seek help when they need it and help others when they see it. In many regards L3 is more than a crisis model, it is a Pre-crisis model. By helping their colleague before the escalation to crisis the one at risk is able to get the help they need and often times avoid measures that might further increase risk due to suspension, hospitalization, department stigma and other negative outcomes.
The supplemental learning objectives further strengthen intervention skills. First Responders learn how toxic work cultures increase risk of suicide and the importance of developing a culture that addresses such issues. They are able to identify the myths that impact cultural mindset within the department and the community they serve. The need for building rapport is highlighted, along with an examination of cultural differences that challenge ability to intervene. Finally, learned skills are assessed in various intensive simulation exercises that challenge class participants to engage the person at risk. These simulations hone the skillset further and strengthen the LEAD portion of the model as the participant works through the steps of transitioning to safety.
Every community depends on the services of First Responders, yet they are humans too that carry their own burdens even as they seek to help others with theirs. Reducing the stigma of seeking help is the final discussion in the L3 training, and perhaps the most important discussion for First Responders. Listen Learn Lead is a vital resource strengthening the First Responder community for their sakes and the sake of the community they serve. If first responders do not get the help they need and deserve, who will answer the call to YOUR next emergency?
A 2017 AFM survey of 500 L3 trained officers revealed that 95% had never been trained in suicide intervention prior to L3. These were not rookies, but seasoned officers; three were retiring before the end of the year. Thankfully, most agencies are now more fully addressing this training need because they are AWARE there is a need for such training. AFM has experienced a tremendous uptick from agencies requesting L3 training. It is a move in the right direction as agencies look to provide training that directly impacts the wellbeing of the agency and their communities. Armed Forces Mission and the Listen Learn Lead training are leading the way as a vital component in the mission to save lives.
Now Planning the 2022 Training Calendar
After a tough 2020 due to COVID, 2021 has been the biggest training year in AFM history with more than 4,000 participants trained in the Intervene Challenge and the Listen Learn Lead curriculum. In 2022 Armed Forces Mission is expanding training opportunities to law enforcement agencies throughout the southeast. Grants are available to substantially reduce individual agency cost.
Email Us today or call Lou at 678-283-4293 to schedule a training event for your agency.
AFM Advisory Council
AFM Board of Directors
|
LTC (R) Carl Hall
Chairman |
Lou Koon, D.Min.
President |
Dr. Heather Burrell
Secretary |
COL (R) Doug Brantley
Treasurer |
|
Bob Babich
Vice Chair |
Rick Barns
Community Liaison |
MSgt MaCrae Koon
Active Military Liaison |
Adrien Neely
Board Chaplain |