ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) — Regardless of whether it involves a traffic stop or a domestic disturbance, each encounter has an enduring impact on a deputy serving in Winnebago County. It only needs to be a single emergency call for these frontline workers to reach their breaking point.
About a year ago, the Sheriff’s Office launched its Wellness and Resilience Department, which stands as the sole initiative of this nature in the area aimed at supporting those who safeguard our community.
Marissa Ebert serves as a counselor for the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office and leads the Wellness and Resilience Division. According to her, the initiative aims beyond assisting staff members with psychological well-being; it also prioritizes comprehensive health encompassing physical condition, quality of rest, dietary habits, along with addressing financial concerns and familial matters.
"It may require some time when interacting with responders before they gradually open up and fully incorporate you into their culture," Ebert explained.
The prominent stigma that discourages emergency responders from getting assistance is merely one obstacle that Ebert aims to surmount, particularly since she points out that the rate of suicides among first responders hasn't decreased.
Using this program, sheriff’s deputies have access to a revitalization chamber equipped with red-light therapy, an infrared sauna, and a polar plunge station designed to activate nerve responses, enhance mood, and promote better sleep quality.
Ebert emphasizes, "Aid in healing them and prolonging their lifespan while also supporting their mental well-being through improvements in their physical health. Assist them in being more engaged with their family and more mindful of those surrounding them."
Physical well-being holds the same significance as mental well-being. This is precisely why deputies focus on enhancing their tactical fitness to reduce the risk of injuries. According to Ebert, some law enforcement personnel also undergo training in jiu-jitsu to support them when they're out in the field.
"Hearing it from them or simply noticing their physical posture improve at the end of a session—like they're sitting a bit taller—that tells me we're making progress," Ebert says.
Sheriff Gary Caruana states that any call could involve a situation affecting a first responder personally, and every case is distinct.
What is that stress factor? How does it appear? It varies from one person to another," Caruana stated. "It depends on how an individual perceives it.
Caruana points out that Ebert is the sole psychological expert on the department's payroll across the whole area. He mentions that when deputies interact with her, it feels like a conversation between equals.
“Feel free to discuss anything you like,” Caruana clarified. “You could talk about your vacation or pretty much anything else, as long as it begins with that person-to-person interaction and eases into things gradually.”
The Sheriff’s Department is currently implementing a new policy wherein all officers will have meetings with Ebert, gain familiarity with the program, and begin addressing the stigmatization surrounding this issue.
Caruana and Ebert both suggest that if you witness a first responder performing well, make sure to acknowledge their efforts. According to them, this is something uplifting they can cherish during challenging moments.
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