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COVID-19 Resources for EMS Providers

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

Sometimes it feels like the world says you should be always happy, and that showing your stress is a sign of weakness. This is far from true – if you were to hold in all your stress you would explode. We all have good and bad days. No one can be perfectly happy all of the time, that is not human. One day you feel on top of the world, the next you are down. While we are still trying to accept this ourselves, we know that it is part of life and whether or not others choose to show it, it still happens.

For those who are struggling with mental illness and/or grief, dealing with this pressure to always seem happy can be even more challenging, as a lot of days are low. Sometimes when we are feeling down, we put on a mask to hide the darkness that lies behind the smile. Getting out of bed can be a major task by itself. With depression at times there is no apparent reason for why you are feeling this way. When it feels as though a cloud is hanging over our heads, those are the days we push people away the most. We do this because it is easier to try and forget about what is going on and not bother others with our problems. But getting through your problems and ignoring your problems are two completely different things.

Whether that is talking to someone about what is going on, finding answers to what is causing that emotion, or using coping skills such as drawing, yoga, mindfulness, and so many other healthy ideas, there are ways to help you get through the bad days. It’s okay to feel down.

 

Mission Hope NJ

In emergency services, mental health continues to be a low priority for many organizations and lacks proper funding for this valuable resource to be made available to all.  EMS Consulting Services is a supporter of Mission Hope NJ.  Mission Hope NJ is a non-profit organization of emergency responders that are providing the much needed support, education, and resources for first responders in New Jersey that recognize, continue or currently struggling with symptoms of PTSD, Vicarious Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, and so many more reasons.

Safe Call Now (staffed by first responders)

1-206-459-3020.

Assists with mental health, substance abuse, and related issues. 

 

SAMHSA’s National Helpline 

1-800-662-4357

A confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.

Mental Health for First Responders

Substance Abuse Assistance