Editorial: You Are Not Alone

Over the past few months we have been following frightening news reports out of Canada documenting high rates of first responder suicides.
As of last month, 25 first responders were known to have died by suicide in the preceding five-plus months, with data reporting that 27%–28% of Canadian paramedics had considered ending their lives.

Such shocking statistics are a wake-up call for us all to check not only our own mental health, but that of our peers.

In this month’s cover report, Senior Editor John Erich asks the question: First responders keep killing themselves—why is that, and what can we do about it? While there has been increasing awareness of the need for providers to have access to behavioral health support, many still feel there is a stigma associated with  asking for help. How can that be in a profession dedicated to helping others? If you see a colleague struggling, don’t you reach out a helping hand in support?

In Erich’s article, Vince Savoia, a former paramedic who now directs Canada’s Tema Conter Memorial Trust, says, “I’ve seen many cases of harassment and bullying among peers who will criticize someone who seeks help. We need to understand that asking for help is a tool that allows us to do our job more effectively.”

Recently, the National Volunteer Fire Council launched Share the Load, a support program for fire and EMS personnel. Through this program, the NVFC is working to break the stigma around behavioral health issues, open up the dialogue in departments, and provide resources departments and emergency personnel can use to prevent tragedy. For more information on this program, visit EMSWorld.com/11441845.

We welcome your thoughts on this topic. E-mail editor@emsworld.com. And please know, you are not alone.