MINISTRY

FIRST RESPONDERS

First Responders hold a very special place in the heart of CDM.

A little history…

For the past five years, Chad has served as chaplain for his local police department in Redlands, California. He has witnessed firsthand the emotional weight carried by police officers, firefighters, paramedics, military personnel, and correctional officers - and the impact that constant exposure to trauma can have on them and their families.

Around the world, public safety agencies are giving greater attention to the mental health and well-being of those who serve. In Brazil, for example, the White January campaign promotes mental health awareness and has opened doors for CDM to partner with police, military units, firefighters, and prison officials in communities across the country. Similar opportunities have followed in the United States and, more recently, South Africa, where we were invited to encourage and support police officers facing many of these same challenges.

These experiences have strengthened our conviction that caring for those who protect our communities is essential. Through Viva Vida, we come alongside organizations - not to replace existing resources, but to reinforce them by creating honest conversations, reducing stigma, and reminding first responders that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

International research regarding police officers shows:

  • Up to 50% higher suicide risk than general population

  • Access to firearms contributes to higher likelihood of “successful” suicide attempts

  • 15-25% experience symptoms of depression

  • 20-30% experience clinically significant anxiety

  • 10-20% meet criteria for PTSD

  • 30-40% are affected by burnout

When we care for those who serve others, we strengthen families, organizations, and entire communities.

Many countries recognize that first responders face significant psychological stress due to repeated exposure to trauma and critical incidents. National agencies have expanded psychological support, peer-support initiatives, and suicide prevention resources.

Viva Vida can complement community efforts by:

  • Opening honest conversations about depression and suicide

  • Reducing stigma that often prevents people seeking help

  • Equipping people to recognize warning signs

  • Encouraging people to seek professional help before a crisis becomes life-threatening

One challenge can be ensuring that people feel safe enough to ask for help. By creating environments where conversations about mental health are welcomed and not feared, initiatives like Viva Vida help bridge the gap between public services and the individuals who may otherwise suffer in silence.