Mental Health Matters

Destigmatizing the Conversation: The Crucial Role of Critical Incident Stress Management for First Responders

By: John Hunt, MA, CHEC, CCISM, CAAIS, Chief Operations Officer, Crisis Response Canines

 

October marks the National Depression and Mental Health Awareness and Screening Month.  While depression can affect anyone, it has a particularly profound impact on First Responders. Now more than ever, we have a call to action to raise awareness, and address the mental health needs of our heroic first responders. Critical Incident Stress Management plays a crucial role in supporting their mental health and general wellbeing.

These Habits Can Cut The Risk Of Depression In Half, A New Study Finds

Article By: NPR

If an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, here’s a strategy that may help boost your mental health: Spend the next week observing your daily habits. You can jot them down in a journal to keep track. Read More

Funding EMS Behavioral Health Programs

Article By: EMS1

These numbers emphasize the urgent need for increased funding and resources to expand behavioral health programs, ensuring EMS professionals can thrive in all aspects of their lives. Read More

What is Depression?

Article By: SAMHSA

Depression is a disorder of the brain. It is a serious mental illness that is more than just a feeling of being “down in the dumps” or “blue” for a few days.

For more than 20 million people in the United States who have depression, the feelings persist and can interfere with everyday life. Read More

For more information about SAMHSA, visit SAMHSA.Gov.

Weekly Wellness Minute: 3 Ways Pets Can Boost Your Mental Health Watch Here

THE CALL (STORIES FROM BEHIND THE BADGE)

Putting First Responders First – 100 Club of Arizona Be sure to listen to this podcast and more Here

SeaTac, WA First Responder Mental Health and Wellness Conference

Thu Nov 2nd 2023, 8:00 am – Fri Nov 3rd 2023, 4:00 pm PDT

Presented by 1st Responder Conferences in Partnership with First H.E.L.P. Learn More

Video Resources

Crisis Journal

Podcasts