ProSPeR Significant Others and Spouses (SOSs)

Although the First Responder is the focus of care at the Public Safety Professionals Retreat, PSPR also offers support to Significant Others and Spouses (SOSs) who may be affected by their loved one’s critical incidents (resulting in secondary or vicarious trauma).  They  may also be experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety and are in need support.  Significant Others and Spouses may have their own trauma histories, which may be re-activated when their loved ones experience a traumatic event.

The SOS Support meeting takes place during the time of the retreat.  The meeting encompasses a wide range of topics including the PSPR program the First Responder is attending and mental wellness while providing a needed support network for the SOS.  Through the knowledge gained at the meeting and connections made with other SOSs in the first responder community, SOSs will better understand what their First Responder has experienced on the job, at the retreat, and how they can provide the support their loved one will need when they return home.

The meeting is hosted by Regina Pryor, wife of lost Bakersfield Police Officer Sergeant Tom Pryor.  Through Regina’s experience as a spouse of a police officer, she brings her own understanding of the unique struggles and needs of first responder families.

An informational flyer is provided to the Guest as part of the "Welcome Packet" they receive after their formal assessment, yet preceding the retreat itself.  Due to confidentiality, it is the sole choice of the Guest whether to share the information, including meeting details, about the SOS program with their loved ones.