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.

Issues Faced by Responders
According to SAMHSA, Firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, and other first responders and disaster responders repeatedly see the aftermath of disasters and other crises. High-stress scenarios, the threat of personal injury, and the inability of any single person to save everyone can take a toll. Stress and posttraumatic stress and substance use disorders may affect first responders (PDF | 263 KB) at higher rates, and studies suggest that firefighters and EMS personnel may be more likely to think about or die by suicide than the general public.

Responder culture can play a role in whether those in need reach out for help or even recognize that the symptoms they are dealing with are a disorder requiring care and treatment. Responders also deal with the same stigma that makes it hard for people in many communities to seek help. They may think asking for help will make them seem not able to do their job when asking for help is actually a sign of resilience.

Respite serves as an alternative to traditional hospital settings for individuals not posing harm to themselves or others, providing a supportive environment where peer-facilitated programs aim to equip first responders with the tools they need to avoid burnout and successfully continue their crucial work.

As we build our program, here is how you can help. There is a list of items on Amazon to get the respite started. Everything can be sent to our current location until we can get a permanent one.

Just follow this link. Amazon

ASCEND

116 Cleveland Ave NW Suite 200

 Canton, OH 44702