Frequently Asked Questions

What types of services does Bishop's Mission offer?

  • Bishop's Mission provides peer support, Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), and animal-assisted debriefings to help first responders manage stress and recover from traumatic experiences.

  • We’re working to grow our Emergency Veterinary Fund to support the service dogs of first responders and veterans. These loyal companions are more than pets—they’re partners in service, therapy, and recovery.

    Your donations help us provide urgent medical care for these incredible animals, ensuring they stay healthy and ready to support the heroes who depend on them.

  1. What is Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)?

    • CISM is a structured approach to help individuals recover from traumatic events, offering immediate support through debriefings, education, and follow-up care to mitigate long-term stress.

  2. Who can access the peer support services at Bishop's Mission?

    • All active and retired first responders—such as firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and dispatchers—are welcome to access peer support services.

  3. How can first responders get involved with the peer support networks?

    • Responders can join peer support teams by participating in training programs or volunteering for events and support activities hosted by Bishop’s Mission.

  4. What educational programs are available for emergency professionals?

    • We offer workshops, courses, and training sessions in animal related topics to help build the communication between handler and support animal.

  5. Can family members of first responders access support services?

    • Yes, family members can also access certain services, events, and resources to support the mental and emotional well-being of the entire family.

How Support Animals Help in Crisis Situations

Support animals play a crucial role in providing emotional support and comfort during and after crisis situations. Their presence helps individuals feel safe, grounded, and connected, making it easier to process stressful or traumatic experiences. Here’s how they assist:

  1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety:

    • Physical interaction with animals, such as petting or hugging, triggers the release of oxytocin (the "feel-good" hormone), which reduces stress levels, lowers blood pressure, and stabilizes heart rates.

  2. Creates a Calming Presence:

    • In high-stress moments, support animals offer non-judgmental companionship, making it easier for people to open up about their emotions. This calming influence can help de-escalate heightened emotions in the aftermath of a traumatic event.

  3. Encourages Communication:

    • People who are overwhelmed by trauma often struggle to verbalize their feelings. The presence of a support animal can create a non-threatening environment where individuals feel more comfortable talking or simply being present.

  4. Grounding in Moments of Crisis:

    • During a crisis, animals can provide emotional grounding, helping individuals stay connected to the present moment. This is especially beneficial for those experiencing panic, dissociation, or post-traumatic stress symptoms.

  5. Strengthens Social Connections:

    • Support animals facilitate peer bonding by encouraging conversation among responders during group sessions or debriefings. This shared experience helps reduce isolation and fosters a sense of community.

  6. Supports Emotional Regulation:

    • For first responders and others who suppress emotions to function in their roles, support animals can help them feel and express emotions in a healthy way, promoting emotional recovery.

  7. Accessible Comfort:

    • Animals provide immediate comfort during crisis debriefings, particularly when professional help might not be available right away. They act as a bridge between initial trauma and further mental health care.

Support animals bring compassion, comfort, and emotional relief to individuals in crisis, helping them feel safe, process difficult experiences, and start the healing process. Whether through structured debriefings or informal encounters, these animals are powerful tools for reducing stress and building resilience during challenging times.