Illinois (KBSI) – in illinois A new program aimed at First responders can improve their mental health and overall understandingI work at correction.
of illinois The Department of Corrections (IDOC) is the nation’s first correctional facility provide wellness program To the families of frontline workers.
This is the first time a state corrections department in the United States has expanded employee health management courses to the families of front-line employees.
The first health lecture was held Friday, March 22, 2024 family southern illinois Facility it is VJena, menard, robinson, shawnee and centralia orthodontics Center.
The first course was delivered in southern Illinois through the Staff Wellness Response Team, but the program will be offered throughout the state.
IDOC Staff wellness Aadministrator Jonathan Brown says she supports the program.
“We wanted to involve the family more.for myself I We’ve been together foreverThis division has been in existence for 23 years. I I saw the toll it took on families. member, So this was a great course to help families understand what actually happens in corrections. ”
Brown said a job as a first responder can include: mentally difficult and stressful, And it brings anxiety. He says he often sees support for firefighters and police officers, but nothing for correctional officers.
“When it comes to fixes, we’re kind of leading the charge. a lot Of those areas, the It’s a little scary to ask for help, I feel like we’re tough guys Or maybe you feel like you might lose your job if you ask for help, so this is a great way to break that stigma. ”
These courses help families gain a deeper understanding of: environment its fix Police officers are on the scene every day and know What to do if they bring emotions House Step away from work to help families visualize, listen, and integrate into understanding.
“that I don’t No matter who you are, you bring it home, and the family probably suffers the most In terms of how to support us and what we need, orthodontics includes: have a hard time communicating what we are experiencing every day,” Brown says.
Courses are also offered to educate employees as part of Correctional Family Health. how do they Better Open and deal with familys.
The goal is to hold classes once a month for families.
