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The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office recently announced the launch of a mental health training program with Novant Health.

It is the first of its kind for local law enforcement and will enhance all our deputies’ mental efficiency and effectiveness. After a traumatic experience, our deputies are expected to move on and still function at their highest capacity. Surviving the Shield will be implemented in our Basic Law Enforcement classes, and all deputies will go through a mental health revaluation every five years. In addition, there will be constant in-service training relating to mental health fitness as well as post-traumatic stress, which affects many individuals in law enforcement. 

“Mindset dictates readiness and outcome,” Sheriff Bobby F. Kimbrough Jr. said. “We are committed to serving and protecting the people of Forsyth County. This partnership with Novant Health will assist us with our mental readiness. So often, our deputies see the worst of society, yet there is an expectation to give society our best always. There is no health without mental health, and we are committed to that.” 

The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office is committed to serving the community with compassion and understanding. The initiative exemplifies its dedication to enhancing the well being of all deputies by equipping them with the knowledge, skills and capacity to respond effectively after crises.