RESOURCES FOR FIRST RESPONDERS
ASCEND’s First Responder Program is Ohio’s pioneering initiative designed to combat the rising suicide rates among first responders through a peer-run respite program that operates 24/7, offering tailored groups and classes focused on coping skills. Below, you will find several resources which, we believe, can be of great help to you.
Peer Support
In peer support programs for responders, responders provide support for each other. Support may include reflective listening and other types of emotional support, as well as helping with response after a critical incident. Peer support can help responders cope, lower stigma, and build team cohesion. Responders understand the stressors their peers face as others may not. Peers can model healthy behaviors and share information about sources of support. SAMHSA
Following are some resources for peer support for responders:
- The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers a public safety professionals web page with information about challenges responders face and organizations providing peer support programs for responders.
- Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a technique to help people assist those around them who are experiencing mental health or substance use-related crises. MHFA training may cost money to complete. Varieties are available specifically for public safety workers and fire and EMS personnel.
- The International Association of Chiefs of Police has developed peer support guidelines.
- First Responders Peer Support Guidelines
- Sad Team Six
First Responder Wellness: They offer mental wellness classes and courses.
https://www.firstresponder-wellness.com/mental-wellness/
First Responder Support Network: They offer retreats and support.
https://www.frsn.org
We offer free courses on our website often. You can see what we have available currently and in the future. These may be a great resource for you and your department/agency.
https://www.nfrf.org/agency-needs/
https://www.samhsa.gov/technical-assistance/dtac/training/service-to-self
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