2026 First Responder Wellness Conference

The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) is pleased to announce the 2026 First Responder Wellness Conference in Norfolk, VA, on September 2-4, 2026. Enhancing first responder health and wellness not only strengthens their effectiveness on the job but also contributes to greater community safety. The Department of Criminal Justice Services and the Office of First Responder Wellness (OFRW) are committed to providing comprehensive training and resources focused on the holistic well-being of all first responder groups. This conference emphasizes the key pillars of wellness, empowering attendees to explore strategies for strengthening these pillars in both their personal and professional lives. First responders face significant physical and mental health challenges due to the high-stress nature of their work. Behavioral health conditions like PTSD and depression can develop, with suicide rates alarmingly higher than in the general population. In addition, first responders face a wide range of stressors beyond the immediate physical dangers of their jobs. These stressors can be chronic, cumulative, and deeply personal, often affecting their mental and physical well-being over time. This conference is for first-responder professionals to learn from experts in the field about resources and best practices for developing comprehensive health and wellness strategies. Topics Include: Strengthening First Responder Families, Dropping the Shield, Healthy Eating and Sleep, Fitness That Supports the Job, Sound Bath Meditation, Fueling Resilience, And More!