Under the Shield Founder Advocates for Mental Wellness Paradigm Shift for First Responders

Susan Lewis Simons, Founder and President of Under the Shield, Inc., recently appeared on Innovators' Journey to discuss her organization's mission to provide mental wellness services to first responders and their families. The nonprofit, established in 1992, offers proactive and anonymous support specifically designed for law enforcement officers, firefighters, military members, and their loved ones.

Central to Under the Shield's approach is The Simons Theory of the Psychological Garbage Can, developed by Simons herself. This innovative model represents a significant shift in how mental health challenges are perceived within the first responder community. Rather than viewing Post-Traumatic Stress as a disorder, the theory frames it as an injury resulting from the unique lifestyle and occupational exposures faced by first responders.

The organization provides individualized Stress Coaching alongside comprehensive training programs aimed at building resilience and supporting both first responders and their spouses or significant others. This holistic approach addresses the mental health needs of the entire support system surrounding these professionals.

The segment featuring Simons can be viewed here. The appearance was documented by Marquis Who's Who®, which has chronicled accomplished individuals across various fields since 1899. Their publications can be accessed at http://www.marquiswhoswho.com.

This development matters because it challenges long-standing stigmas surrounding mental health in high-stress professions. By reframing post-traumatic stress as an injury rather than a disorder, Under the Shield's approach could significantly increase help-seeking behavior among first responders who might otherwise avoid treatment due to concerns about professional repercussions or personal shame.

The implications extend beyond individual wellness to organizational effectiveness and public safety. When first responders receive proper mental health support, they can maintain better job performance, reduce burnout rates, and provide more effective service to their communities. This paradigm shift could influence mental health policies across emergency services nationwide, potentially leading to systemic changes in how these professionals are supported throughout their careers.