Mental Health Month Resource Kit

May is Mental Health Month, and awareness and education of mental health is something highly needed in the community of first responders. While 85% of these men and women experience symptoms of mental illnesses, only half of EMS agencies provide the necessary resources for maintaining quality mental health. This results in high rates of PTSD and depression among first responders. For more information on first responders and mental health, visit https://www.phoenix.edu/firstresponders. 

Founded in 1909, Mental Health America (MHA) has been educating the public about mental health issues and encouraging open dialogue on the subject. MHA has become one of the largest community-based nonprofits in the country. The organization is dedicated to fostering awareness on mental health conditions and how they relate to overall well-being.

MHA offers a variety of resources for individuals at risk or currently diagnosed with a mental illness, including prevention services, mental health assessments, integrated care and more. Their goal is to help individuals achieve recovery. Often, first responders don't seek help due to the stigma associated with mental health, but recovery is more easily attained the earlier they are treated. Regardless of what stage of illness an individual is in, treatment is always available. Visit their website at https://www.mentalhealthamerica.net for more information.

If you are a first responder experiencing symptoms of mental health conditions, visit https://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/im-looking-mental-health-help-myself. If you know someone who is a first responder experiencing symptoms of poor mental health, visit https://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/im-looking-mental-health-help-someone-else.

Below are a few EMS World articles discussing the topic of mental health in relation to first responders:

• Mental Health Resource Tool Kit
• Are You Under Stress in EMS?
• Beyond The Call: PTSD Training Documentary
• Earlier Than Too Late: Stopping Stress and Suicide Among Emergency Personnel
• NVFC Spotlights Suicide Prevention Resources
• Preventing Provider Suicide
• Guest Blog: A Safe Space for EMS

As per MHA: If you or a person you care about is in crisis, please seek help immediately. Call 800-273-TALK (8255) to reach a 24-hour crisis center, text MHA to 741741, call 9-1-1, or go to the nearest emergency room. You can also call these numbers if you fear for your own or someone's safety or life.