ODEMSA Peer Support Team

The ODEMSA Peer Support Team is available 24/7 and can be activated through the VA EOC by calling (804) 674-2400 or (800) 468-8892. 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 Servants 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:

FatigueNausea
GI UpsetsMemory Loss
Concentration ProblemsProblem Solving Difficulties
AnxietyFears
DepressionNightmares
Identification with VictimsFlashbacks
Fear of Repetition of the Stress EventMood Swings
Changes in Sleep PatternsChanges in Eating Habits
Changes in Work HabitsUnusual Actions or Behaviors

If you are interested in becoming a Peer Support Team Responder please complete the application using the link below.

Apply to become a Peer Support Member

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.
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 also collected a list of many good resources for people looking for 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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