Thank You to Our First Responders
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the September 11th attacks. This is a time to honor the courage and fortitude of all the first responders who sacrificed their lives to save others and to acknowledge the countless acts of heroism displayed that morning and every day.
In recognition of the anniversary of 9/11, we express our heartfelt gratitude. We recognize many survivors may still struggle with trauma related issues and triggers connected to this tragedy. Mirmont’s team of specialists are available to help anyone who may be suffering. If you or someone you know needs support, please see below to learn more about the resources we have to offer.
VIPER is a specialized treatment track that consists of first responders who struggle with addiction and, in many cases, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), crime scene trauma, work-related distress and family and marital problems. In addition to group therapy, VIPER offers:
- Eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) for PTSD
- Relapse prevention therapy
- Intensive outpatient therapy (IOP)
- LOTUS support group for families of first responders
The program treats both inpatients and outpatients at Mirmont Treatment Center in the western suburbs of Philadelphia.
Why do first responders need a program specifically designed to meet their needs?
A first responder who enters this treatment environment has had a vastly different experience than other patients. A police officer, for example, may be concerned about receiving treatment alongside someone who has a criminal past, or someone who might recognize them as an officer from their neighborhood.
By the nature of their careers, first responders often have their guard up so entering a treatment program surrounded by people who might recognize them or feel a certain way about them can heighten that isolated feeling.
VIPER offers a community where first responders can talk to and meet people who have had similar experiences to their own so that they feel less alone and, hopefully, less guarded.
Who are the different types of first responders who seek treatment through VIPER?
Since the VIPER program began, it has attracted members from across the Philadelphia region and around the country, including places like New York, Boston and Chicago. VIPER serves a variety of first responders, including police and law enforcement officials, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, combat veterans, even United States Border Patrol agents. More recently, corrections officers have been seeking trauma and addiction support through the VIPER program. They have a workplace culture that makes it difficult to overcome addiction.
What happens during a VIPER meeting?
It’s quite a bit of talk and experiential therapy, but it’s also a chance to simply talk about things that you might not feel comfortable sharing in other groups or at 12-step meetings. Most of these things center on traumatic experiences.
First responders also have a particular sense of humor that they can only express to their brothers and sisters on the front lines. Often, amidst their pain, VIPER members crack jokes and make funny observations. Laughter keeps them grounded and in touch with their humanity.
How do first responders benefit from VIPER?
First responders benefit most from the opportunity for fellowship and the realization that they’re not alone. By nature and the career they have chosen, first responders are caregivers. When they feel that they come up short, it’s damaging to their self-esteem and pride. It can be tough to keep going because they take it harder than the average person. They need to know that they’re not failed people.
VIPER offers that camaraderie and is a reminder that there are others just like them out there, struggling with the same problems. It helps them understand that they deserve the time and opportunity to recover, too, just like everyone else.
Do first responders continue participating in the VIPER program?
Many VIPER alumni who have been clean and sober for several years continue to come back to the group to share with those who are in treatment now. The message is: ‘If I can overcome addiction and trauma and move on with my life, so can you.’