Wayne State hosts first responder support program to help with mental health
Mental health is a big deal for first responders who see traumatic scenes almost every day.
Oakland County officials say officer suicides eclipse line-of-duty deaths.
Officials have created a free and confidential 24/7 support program through Wayne State.
DETROIT (FOX 2) - They protect and help communities small and large, but first responders see many things that can affect their mental health. This is why many were at Wayne State University for counseling, over the horrific things some experienced.
Why you should care
Retired Detroit Assistant Police Chief Steve Dolunt saw a lot in his over thirty years of service.
"I had five officers shot one night and one lost their life," he said. "I made sure they all went to counseling and I didn't go because, oh, I'm in charge and I don't need this."
But he tells FOX 2 he did need it, as he says it's needed more now than ever, with police officer suicides becoming a growing concern.
The backstory
The issue came up Monday during a bi-partisan roundtable discussion on increasing public safety funding at Detroit Police Headquarters. State lawmakers and the top brass from many Metro Detroit police departments were talking about the issue in detail, including Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard.
"You are seeing officer suicides that eclipse the line-of-duty deaths," Bouchard said. "We're at a high line-of-duty deaths but the number that's higher is suicides, because there's so many pressures on the men and women in law enforcement. There's so many challenges they face."
Former Warren Police Officer Scott Taylor is part of the team counseling fellow First Responders at Frontline Strong Together, a free and confidential 24/7 support program through Wayne State assisting First Responders with trauma and stress.
"The average person sees 8 to 10 traumatic events in their lifetime," Taylor said. "A police officer or a firefighter or other First Responder may see that in a month, may see that in a shift depending on where you work."
What's next
In part, virtual reality-type technology helps officers, firefighters and others deal with and overcome their job-related PTSD.
"Say you are fearful of dogs. A safe way to get you unfearful of dogs is to put you into a controlled environment and make you think there's dogs around you. There's no dogs but in your head cause you got the goggles you are petting dogs. You are getting more used to spiders, if you're afraid of spiders. If you have anxiety of going out in public because you are a First Responder. We can put you in public, and you don't ever leave the room. It's a safe environment."
It's the type of training and support Steve Dolunt says we need more of as soon as possible, just knowing he's been there.
"You know what? I had PTSD for a while. I screwed up," he said. "But you have to accept the fact that you are not invincible."
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Cosmopolitan
10 hours ago
- Cosmopolitan
Don't Let Hives Hijack Your Summer Social Life
You scored concert tickets. You and your besties have multiple beach days planned. Your crush wants you to hike his favorite trail with him. And yet…you're not exactly psyched about these summer plans. Why? Because you're living with urticaria—aka hives, those itchy red welts that have a tortured relationship with summer temps—which means all that warm-weather fun can quickly turn miserable. Christina Kantzavelos, 36, who lives in San Diego and was diagnosed with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) over 10 years ago, can relate. "The hardest part is the unpredictability," she says. "Some days I look and feel fine. Other days I'm exhausted, uncomfortable, or visibly covered in hives. That makes it hard to plan ahead, even when others can't see what's happening beneath the surface." For most people, a case of hives is temporary, lasting anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. But with long-lasting hives—what doctors call chronic urticaria—flare-ups occur most days of the week, if not daily, for six or more weeks, as the result of a particular trigger like a specific food or medication. With CSU, in contrast, the cause is unknown. "Compared with other forms of chronic hives, CSU doesn't have an identifiable trigger," says Brittany Craiglow, MD, an associate adjunct professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine. "Some patients with CSU also experience systemic symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, joint pain or swelling, and gastrointestinal symptoms." Women develop CSU at twice the rate of men, usually between the ages of 20 and 40. Experts aren't sure why, but one possible reason is that "women are more likely to have autoimmune diseases," in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells and tissues, causing inflammation and damage, says Steve Daveluy, MD, professor and program director in the department of dermatology at Wayne State University. "Estrogen and the hormonal changes that happen during the menstrual cycle impact the immune system, making it more reactive." And that, in turn, makes it more likely to cause chronic hives. Treating CSU often requires working with a dermatologist to develop a multi-pronged approach that includes some combination of medication, light therapy, and lifestyle modifications around diet, exercise, and stress. "Identifying personal triggers and trying to avoid them as much as possible is an important part of management," Dr. Craiglow says. For Kantzavelos, that means being mindful of everything from her pantry to her wardrobe. "I avoid high-histamine foods and drinks like alcohol and processed snacks," she says. "I use unscented skincare and laundry products, and wear soft, loose clothing that won't irritate my skin." Summer is particularly challenging for those living with chronic hives. "Heat, sunlight, sweat, and even the pressure from shoes or swimsuits can all trigger flares," Kantzavelos says. "It takes a lot of planning to move through social settings when you're managing a condition that reacts to almost everything." This doesn't mean you have to sit the season out, though. Here are tips for how to manage CSU through all the situations you're likely to find yourself in this summer, so you can interact with others stress-free—and be as psyched as ever about your jam-packed social calendar. A trip to the seashore may seem like a no-go for someone with CSU, but it's doable if you time it right. "Sunlight and heat can both trigger hives, so morning, late afternoon, or evening may be better times to visit," says Dr. Craiglow. "When you're there, cover up—think broad-brimmed hat and rash guard—or even better, hang out under an umbrella." Cold temperatures can also worsen hives, says Dr. Craiglow. But of course, this isn't normally an issue in the summer, unless the ocean water is chilly, in which case she advises staying on the shore. The stress of knowing your CSU can flare at any moment is enough to make you opt out of anything remotely social, even a casual cookout with friends. When you consider the two-way relationship between stress and chronic hives—one causes the other—it's easy to see why. "The pattern I see most often is the 'spotlight effect'—believing everyone is watching and judging you when flare-ups happen," says Erinn Everhart, a therapist in El Dorado Hills, California, who has worked with teens and adults navigating social anxiety caused by unpredictable physical symptoms like hives. "One technique that's been game-changing for my clients is creating what I call 'connection anchors' before social events. This means identifying two to three people at the gathering whom you genuinely want to catch up with, then focusing conversations on them rather than your condition. When you're interested in someone else's story, your own self-consciousness naturally fades into the background." Also, reframe social situations as practice rounds rather than performances, Everhart suggests. In other words, view each interaction as a way to build your resilience tool kit, rather than a test you could pass or fail. Preventing a flare-up is easier when you have a standard case of chronic urticaria; you can simply avoid your known triggers. With CSU, the triggers are unknown (hence the "spontaneous" part of the name). So how can you enjoy a hike when nature itself is unpredictable? Play it safe, says Kantzavelos. For her, that means hiking during cooler times of the day, wearing soft, protective layers, and carrying a stash of electrolytes, water, and her emergency meds. It's also important to not overexert yourself, as increased body temperature can trigger hives. "I check in with my body often and take breaks before I actually need them," she says. "Nature can be healing, but only when I move at a pace that feels safe for my system." Something to keep in mind when choosing your date-night outfit, notes Dr. Craiglow: Friction and pressure from clothing can exacerbate hives. Even the pressure of a purse strap on your shoulder can trigger a flare-up. "A flowy maxi dress or jumpsuit is going to be a better option than a tight, strappy dress or top," she says. When possible, suggest a date spot that's low-key and climate-controlled, as Kantzavelos does. She also shares early in a relationship that she lives with a chronic condition that sometimes causes visible symptoms. "It helps remove pressure and allows me to show up more fully," she says. Although not a true allergen, chlorine can irritate the skin and potentially trigger or exacerbate hives for people with CSU—especially those with sensitive skin. But that doesn't mean the pool is off-limits. Kantzavelos has her pool routine down pat: "I always rinse before and after swimming and moisturize with a product my skin can tolerate," she says. "I avoid hot tubs completely. And I bring a cooling towel and stay near shaded areas, so I have an easy exit point if my body starts to feel off."
CNET
4 days ago
- CNET
Think Higher SPF Is Better? Experts Say 30–50 Is Where It's At
Staying hydrated and cool might be at the top of your list this summer, but don't forget about sunscreen. Protecting your skin from the sun's UV rays is essential—not just to prevent sunburn, but to lower your risk of skin cancer and early signs of aging. With so many SPF options lining store shelves, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. That's why we asked a dermatologist to break down exactly what SPF number you should be reaching for. What is SPF? SPF, or sun protection factor, describes the amount of solar energy needed to produce a sunburn on protected skin relative to unprotected skin, according to the US Food and Drug Administration. Logic would follow, then, that wearing a higher SPF would offer you better protection when you're out and about, basking in the sun's rays. Is a higher SPF better? Is higher SPF sunscreen more protective in a measurable way that actually matters? The tested difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is small, according to Dr. Steven Daveluy, board-certified dermatologist and program director at Wayne State University Department of Dermatology. There was a difference of 96.7% blocking versus 98% blocking, in one example he provided. Research on people wearing sunscreen out in "real life" has suggested higher SPFs are more protective, Daveluy said in an email. Combine this with the fact you're probably not wearing enough sunscreen -- studies have shown people apply only 25% to 50% of the amount that they should, Daveluy said -- and a higher SPF may come out reasonably more protective. "You should use about 1 ounce of sunscreen to cover your head, neck, arms and legs when wearing shorts and a T-shirt," Daveluy recommended, adding that people without hair should use a little more. "That means your 3-ounce tube of sunscreen is only three applications," Daveluy said. "Most people are not using that amount." What is the minimum SPF you need in a sunscreen? The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends your sunscreen be SPF 30 or higher. It also recommends you look for sunscreen that has broad-spectrum protection (it protects against UVA and UVB rays) and make sure it's water-resistant. "If you follow the recommendations for the proper amount of sunscreen, then SPF 30 is great," Daveluy said. If you think you're skimping on the layers, though, a higher SPF could offer more benefit. He added that he generally recommends looking for at least SPF 50 or 60. Does skin tone matter when choosing an SPF? People with darker skin tones have more melanin, which does offer some protection from the sun's damaging rays. For this reason, skin cancer rates in people of color are lower than rates in white people, but the risk isn't zero. Research also suggests that people of color may be more likely to experience a missed or late diagnosis of skin cancer, making outcomes more dangerous. (It's also important to note that melanoma can have other causes besides exposure to sunlight or UV rays, and can show up in areas not typically exposed to sun.) "SPF 30 is the minimum for everyone," Daveluy said. He added that tinted sunscreens may be a better fit for darker skin tones, leaving less of a white cast. "If you have very fair skin, the higher [SPF] numbers may be a good idea, especially if you aren't using the proper amount, because you will see the consequences of underuse more easily," Daveluy said. Sunscreen red flags As long as you're wearing a minimum of SPF 30, applying it properly and also looking for products that are broad spectrum and water resistant, you've got the basics down. Daveluy added that for people with sensitive skin, finding a mineral sunscreen with "active ingredients of zinc and/or titanium" may be a good choice. Daveluy pointed out other measures of protecting yourself from the sun, including wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sun-protective clothing and hanging out in the shade when possible. But don't forget that sunscreen has a proven safety record going back for decades, he said. "The biggest red flags for sunscreen are any people or reports that try to tell you sunscreen isn't safe," Daveluy said.
CNET
14-07-2025
- CNET
Not Too High, Not Too Low: Here's the Ideal SPF You Need This Summer, According to Experts
This summer, you may be focusing on staying cool and drinking enough water. But there is one product you may be forgetting that is essential for your health -- sunscreen. Especially during the summer months, sunscreen is crucial to protect your skin from the sun's UV rays, which can lead to skin cancer and premature aging. But with so many different SPF numbers out there, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. We asked a dermatologist, so you don't have to. What is SPF? SPF, or sun protection factor, describes the amount of solar energy needed to produce a sunburn on protected skin relative to unprotected skin, according to the US Food and Drug Administration. Logic would follow, then, that wearing a higher SPF would offer you better protection when you're out and about, basking in the sun's rays. Is a higher SPF better? Is higher SPF sunscreen more protective in a measurable way that actually matters? The tested difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is small, according to Dr. Steven Daveluy, board-certified dermatologist and program director at Wayne State University Department of Dermatology. There was a difference of 96.7% blocking versus 98% blocking, in one example he provided. Research on people wearing sunscreen out in "real life" has suggested higher SPFs are more protective, Daveluy said in an email. Combine this with the fact you're probably not wearing enough sunscreen -- studies have shown people apply only 25% to 50% of the amount that they should, Daveluy said -- and a higher SPF may come out reasonably more protective. "You should use about 1 ounce of sunscreen to cover your head, neck, arms and legs when wearing shorts and a T-shirt," Daveluy recommended, adding that people without hair should use a little more. "That means your 3-ounce tube of sunscreen is only three applications," Daveluy said. "Most people are not using that amount." What is the minimum SPF you need in a sunscreen? The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends your sunscreen be SPF 30 or higher. It also recommends you look for sunscreen that has broad-spectrum protection (it protects against UVA and UVB rays) and make sure it's water-resistant. "If you follow the recommendations for the proper amount of sunscreen, then SPF 30 is great," Daveluy said. If you think you're skimping on the layers, though, a higher SPF could offer more benefit. He added that he generally recommends looking for at least SPF 50 or 60. Does skin tone matter when choosing an SPF? People with darker skin tones have more melanin, which does offer some protection from the sun's damaging rays. For this reason, skin cancer rates in people of color are lower than rates in white people, but the risk isn't zero. Research also suggests that people of color may be more likely to experience a missed or late diagnosis of skin cancer, making outcomes more dangerous. (It's also important to note that melanoma can have other causes besides exposure to sunlight or UV rays, and can show up in areas not typically exposed to sun.) "SPF 30 is the minimum for everyone," Daveluy said. He added that tinted sunscreens may be a better fit for darker skin tones, leaving less of a white cast. "If you have very fair skin, the higher [SPF] numbers may be a good idea, especially if you aren't using the proper amount, because you will see the consequences of underuse more easily," Daveluy said. Sunscreen red flags As long as you're wearing a minimum of SPF 30, applying it properly and also looking for products that are broad spectrum and water resistant, you've got the basics down. Daveluy added that for people with sensitive skin, finding a mineral sunscreen with "active ingredients of zinc and/or titanium" may be a good choice. Daveluy pointed out other measures of protecting yourself from the sun, including wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sun-protective clothing and hanging out in the shade when possible. But don't forget that sunscreen has a proven safety record going back for decades, he said. "The biggest red flags for sunscreen are any people or reports that try to tell you sunscreen isn't safe," Daveluy said.
