What Is DEFENSE?
DEFENSE stands for Defending Employees From the Effects of Negative Stressful Experiences. It is a peer support program for Missouri State Highway Patrol employees. The program provides confidential support to employees and their families who are experiencing personal or professional difficulties.
The DEFENSE program recognizes that law enforcement personnel face unique stressors that can affect their well-being, relationships, and job performance. Peer supporters are trained to provide emotional support, resource referrals, and a confidential listening ear.
Mission
The mission of the DEFENSE program is to provide confidential peer support services to all Missouri State Highway Patrol employees and their families. The program aims to promote emotional wellness, resilience, and healthy coping strategies among personnel.
Who Are Peer Supporters?
Peer supporters are fellow MSHP employees who have volunteered and been specially trained to assist colleagues in times of need. They understand the unique challenges of law enforcement because they share the same experiences. All peer supporters complete extensive training in:
• Active listening skills
• Crisis intervention
• Stress management
• Grief and loss support
• Referral resources
• Confidentiality protocols
When to Reach Out
The DEFENSE program is available for a wide range of situations, including:
• Critical incidents (officer-involved shootings, line-of-duty deaths, serious crashes)
• Personal difficulties (relationship issues, family problems, financial stress)
• Work-related stress (burnout, conflict, career transitions)
• Grief and loss (death of a colleague, family member, or friend)
• Substance use concerns
• Any situation where you need someone to talk to
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is the cornerstone of the DEFENSE program. Conversations with peer supporters are kept strictly confidential. Peer supporters will not share information without the employee's consent, except in situations involving imminent danger to self or others, as required by law.
How to Access DEFENSE
Any MSHP employee or family member can access the DEFENSE program at any time. You can reach a peer supporter by:
• Contacting any known peer supporter directly
• Calling the DEFENSE program coordinator
• Requesting support through your supervisor or troop commander
• Reaching out to the Wellness Unit
Additional Resources
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• COPLINE (Law Enforcement Officers): 1-800-267-5463
Contact
Missouri State Highway Patrol
1510 East Elm Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101
Phone: (573) 751-3313
Website: www.statepatrol.dps.mo.gov