Philosophically, this manual is premised on the assumption that there is no single most effective model of helping people when conditions, situations or events occur to upset balance in their life. What we have found is that the impact of stress, adversity and trauma (S.A.T.), is often left to work itself out. Far too often an event occurs that disrupts normal life and forces the individual to refocus in a different way trying to resolve the problem. We need not go it alone when faced with a negative experience, especially when associates are trained to assist us. We can move forward toward a return to balance more quickly when we have help. Science and research have identified steps that can be taken by the individual or with those others with whom they work, live or associate. Noticing that something is wrong often triggers a belief that time will heal all things and we ignore what is happening. As a friend, colleague, or supervisor it may become appropriate to seek to help that person. Rejection is always an option by the individual, but often assistance is welcomed, if done right and with the proper intent. We present information and tools to guide your interest in acquiring the skills of a peer coach, someone who will reach out to help others. If the decision is made to engage, do so with clear intent, knowledgeable applications, sincerity and concern for the other person. Saving lives is not always an emergency room endeavor, it often is personal, one on one, where caring and willingness to help another person, shines brightly through the gloom of discouragement and despondency.
About the Author: Ronald L. Breazeale, Ph.D., received his doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Tennessee in 1974. He is a clinical psychologist with over 30 years of experience in the fields of mental health and alcohol and drug abuse. Dr. Breazeale has worked with public safety organization in a number of capacities since the mid-1970. He provided assistance in the development of a program for public safety supervisors and managers to recognize employee issues and problems and devise strategies to address them before they became a major concern. Dr. Breazeale is the author of "Reaching Home" a book that discusses conquering fear, a story of resilience, of bouncing back from adversity. His most recent book and trainers guide is "Duct Tape Isn't Enough" and addresses resilience training. Richard C. Lumb, PhD, Lumb received his doctorate from Florida State University, and his Master and Bachelor degrees from the University of Southern Maine. Lumb's academic career includes Chair and Program Director of Criminal Justice and Police Certification Training at Western Piedmont Community College, in Morganton, North Carolina; Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte; Associate Professor and Graduate Coordinator, Department of Criminal Justice at Northern Michigan University; and Chair and Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, State University of New York at Brockport. He provides education and training services for public safety and first responders, with focus on the health and well-being of those who work in these occupations.