Law enforcement officers and firefighters are more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The TEEX Public Safety Wellness Program is working to change this disturbing trend by delivering mental health and wellness training and assistance to first responders throughout Texas.

Counselors and Peer Support Team members deploy during disasters to provide crisis intervention and mental health first aid to responders who seek support while in the field. The Public Safety Wellness Program was originally launched with an earmark secured by Congressman Troy Nehls. This funding helped to lay the groundwork for the services and impact the program continues to provide today. TEEX has developed training, customized technical assistance and a counseling center to support public safety professionals throughout Texas.