Peer Support

Peer Support is a structured, confidential program designed to provide emotional and practical support to employees following stressful or traumatic events. It connects trained peers with colleagues who may be experiencing the cumulative effects of high-stress work, critical incidents, or personal challenges. Unlike clinical services, Peer Support is grounded in shared experience — it is one first responder supporting another who understands the realities of the job. The purpose is not to replace professional mental health resources, but to serve as an accessible, trusted bridge that promotes early intervention, resilience, and overall wellness.

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For our agency, Peer Support represents a proactive commitment to the wellbeing of our employees. Working in emergency communications means regularly absorbing crisis, trauma, and intense emotional situations — often without visible recognition of the weight it carries. Peer Support creates a safe, judgment-free space where it is acceptable to say, “I’m not okay,” without fear of stigma or career impact. It reinforces that mental health is operational readiness, not weakness, and that taking care of our people is as critical as serving our community.

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Beyond individual support, Peer Support strengthens our culture. It builds trust, promotes connectedness, and helps prevent burnout, compassion fatigue, and turnover. When employees feel supported, heard, and valued, morale improves and teamwork becomes stronger. In short, Peer Support is not just a program — it is a reflection of who we are as an agency: one team, committed to protecting both our community and each other.

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For more information about our Peer Support team, please contact Heather Bradberry at hbradberry@cherokeecountyga.gov