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‘The Shift That Never Ended': FBI documentary explores resilience and support for first responders

Through stories of resilience and loss, the film calls for agencies to prioritize the mental wellbeing of first responders

By Sarah Roebuck

Being a first responder isn’t just a job; it’s a calling that can leave lasting marks on those who serve. That truth is at the heart of the FBI’s documentary, “The Shift That Never Ended: Stories of Resilience,” which provides an unflinching look at the emotional and psychological toll officers, firefighters and EMS providers face while on and off duty.

The video, featuring interviews with law enforcement professionals, counselors and wellness experts, sheds light on the unique challenges first responders endure — long after their shifts are over. It highlights firsthand accounts from responders to some of the nation’s most harrowing tragedies, including the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, Florida; the 2017 Route 91 Harvest festival shooting in Las Vegas, Nevada; and the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Newtown, Connecticut.

"[The Pulse nightclub shooting] made me see the strongest people I thought were the strongest, most able-bodied first responders, brought them to tears. And so don’t be afraid to have emotions. Don’t be afraid to show those emotions. Don’t be afraid to talk to other people about those emotions. It’s not going to make you look weak. It’s going to save you. It’s going to save your life. It’s going to save your career. Don’t be afraid to get the help. Don’t be afraid to ask for help,” Deputy Chief James Young with the Orlando Police Department recalled.

Among the voices in the documentary is Dr. David Black, president of Lexipol Wellness Solutions, who discusses the critical role wellness programs play in supporting officers through these trials.

“Wellness should be your number one priority, because if you ask yourself what is the number one asset that your agency possesses? And if you think about it, you’re going to say, clearly, it’s your people,” Black explains. “What’s going to really impact recruitment and retention? It’s going to be if you become identified as a leading wellness organization in law enforcement, more people are going to want to join your agency and fewer people are going to want to leave, and you’re going to be identified as a higher quality agency overall. Take an audit of what’s going on in your agency from a wellness perspective, and be thinking about, how do I strengthen this? And that should be your number one priority.”

The documentary also highlights the implementation of programs like those offered by Lexipol, which emphasize peer support, confidential counseling and evidence-based training tailored to first responders. These initiatives aim to address the cumulative trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder and compassion fatigue that responders often experience, providing them with the necessary resources to manage their mental health effectively.

“We’re first responders, firefighters, cops, whatever. We’re known for our integrity. We’re known for wanting to do the right thing. So, you know, do the right thing. Go get the help. This is a moment where you can let your integrity shine, right? It’s going to be hard, and it might be one of the most brave things you end up doing in your career,” said Travis Haldeman with the Clarke County Fire Department, Nevada.

How does your agency measure up when it comes to wellness? Lexipol’s Wellness solutions help agencies deliver anonymous, 24/7 support, enhance peer support team readiness, and build a culture of wellness. Contact Lexipol at 844-312-9500 to learn more or request a demo.