Susan Lewis Simons, Founder and President of Under the Shield, Inc., was recently featured on Innovators’ Journey to discuss her groundbreaking work in mental wellness for First Responders and their families. The segment highlights the organization’s unique approach to addressing the psychological challenges faced by law enforcement officers, firefighters, military members, and their loved ones.
Founded in 1992, Under the Shield, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing proactive, anonymous mental wellness services. The organization delivers individualized Stress Coaching, as well as training programs designed to strengthen resilience and support both First Responders and their spouses or significant others. At the core of all the services is The Simons Theory of the Psychological Garbage Can, developed by Ms. Simons. This innovative model reframes Post-Traumatic Stress not as a disorder but as an injury resulting from the lifestyle of First Responders. By introducing this perspective, Under the Shield empowers individuals to seek help without stigma and to recognize that healing and recovery are possible.
The appearance on Innovators’ Journey, which can be viewed here, underscores the importance of mental health initiatives tailored to high-stress professions. The implications of this announcement are significant: it challenges the traditional narrative around PTSD and promotes a model that encourages early intervention and support without fear of judgment. For first responders, who often face unique stressors and high rates of suicide and burnout, this reframing could lead to greater willingness to seek help and improved long-term outcomes.
Under the Shield’s work is especially critical given the rising awareness of mental health crises among emergency personnel. By offering anonymous services, the organization removes barriers to care, such as concerns about career repercussions or social stigma. The training programs also extend to spouses and partners, recognizing that the entire family unit is affected by the demands of first responder life. This holistic approach aims to build resilience not just in individuals, but within the support systems around them.
The feature on Innovators’ Journey provides a platform to reach a wider audience, potentially influencing other organizations and policymakers to adopt similar models. As mental health continues to be a pressing issue across sectors, the insights shared by Ms. Simons could inspire changes in how support services are designed and delivered for those who serve their communities.
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