Post Traumatic Stress in the fire service
Excerpts from nbcdfw.com: In the coming weeks, the Dallas Fire-Rescue Department is launching a new initiative aimed at providing better support for its personnel dealing with mental health challenges such as post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, and work-related psychological issues. Chief David Coatney of DFR mentioned that the program was first conceived last year, with collaboration from representatives across all three fire associations. A tragic event in 2017—when one of their own lost his life to suicide—played a key role in pushing the initiative forward. To ensure easy access, posters featuring a 24-hour hotline number, a website link, and a QR code will be displayed in every firehouse. Whether through the phone, website, or QR code, firefighters and paramedics can quickly find resources tailored to their mental health needs. “Anonymity is crucial for those who reach out,†said Coatney. “It’s essential to make sure they feel safe and supported when seeking help.†Previously, mental health support for DFR members relied heavily on the city of Dallas’ Employee Assistance Program (EAP). While this resource will still be available, the new program aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, especially among older firefighters who may have been reluctant to seek help in the past. “There was a time when people would just push through, and if someone spoke up about being affected by a call, they’d hear things like ‘get over it, kid.’ But times are changing,†said Coatney. So far, the department has partnered with several local mental health providers to offer services ranging from counseling to addiction treatment. In addition, DFR is set to introduce resiliency training for current employees. Though this training has already been part of the curriculum for new recruits, it’s now being extended to active personnel. The program is designed to help firefighters and paramedics cope with the emotional toll of their demanding jobs. Heat-Resistant Steel Tray,Heat-Resistant Steel Cast Pallet,Alloy Steel Casting,High Temperature Pallet Taizhou Xinyuan Machinnery Co.,Ltd , https://www.xinyuanmachinery.com