The ODEMSA Peer Support Team is available 24/7 and can be activated through the VA EOC by calling (804) 750-8845. The EOC will contact the ODEMSA Peer Support Team Administrative Coordinator who will contact you promptly.
This service is available anywhere in our region for any situation you deem necessary. Some examples of critical incidents requiring peer support are:
- Suicides
- Injury or Death of a Public Safety Servant
- Injury or Death of Children
- Mass Casualty Incidents
- Threats to Public Safety Servant’s Safety
- Natural Disasters
The constant intake of stress or encountering a highly stressful event can cause the emergency service professional to suffer stress reaction symptoms. Symptoms may include:
| Fatigue | Nausea |
| GI Upsets | Memory Loss |
| Concentration Problems | Problem Solving Difficulties |
| Anxiety | Fears |
| Depression | Nightmares |
| Identification with Victims | Flashbacks |
| Fear of Repetition of the Stress Event | Mood Swings |
| Changes in Sleep Patterns | Changes in Eating Habits |
| Changes in Work Habits | Unusual Actions or Behaviors |
To become a Peer Support Team Responder, please complete the application using the link below.
Additional Resources
| Virginia CISM/Peer Support Teams Not in the ODEMSA Region? The Virginia Office of EMS maintains a list of active CISM Teams within the Commonwealth. |
| 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – 9-8-8 The 988 Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. We’re committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness. |
| Safe Call Now – (206) 459-3020 A 24/7 helpline staffed by first responders for first responders and their family members. They can assist with treatment options for responders who are suffering from mental health, substance abuse and other personal issues. |
| Fire/EMS Helpline – (888) 731-3473 Also known as Share the Load. A program run by the National Volunteer Fire Council. They have a helpline text-based help service and have collected many excellent resources for people seeking help and support. |
| National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – (800) 273-8255 The National (USA) Suicide Hotline is not first responder specific, but they can and will talk to anyone who needs help. They have a large number of first responders and veterans who volunteer. |
| Crisis Text Line A service that allows people in crisis to speak with a trained crisis counselor by texting “Start” or “Help” to 741-741 |
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