Excerpts from nbcdfw.com: In the coming weeks, the Dallas Fire-Rescue department is set to launch a new initiative aimed at supporting its personnel in accessing mental health care, including treatment for post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, and other work-related psychological challenges. DFR Chief David Coatney revealed that planning for this program started last year, with collaboration from all three fire associations. A key motivation behind the initiative was the tragic suicide of a firefighter in 2017, which highlighted the urgent need for better mental health support within the department. To make help more accessible, posters featuring a 24-hour hotline number, a website link, and a QR code will be displayed in every DFR station. This ensures that firefighters and paramedics can quickly reach out for assistance, regardless of the method they choose. “The anonymity provided by these resources is crucial,†said Coatney. “It’s especially important for those who might otherwise hesitate to seek help due to fear of judgment or stigma.†Previously, mental health support for DFR members mainly came through the city of Dallas’ Employee Assistance Program (EAP). While that option will still be available, the new program aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly among older firefighters who may have been reluctant to speak up in the past. “There was a time when people would just push through and not talk about their struggles,†explained Coatney. “You’d hear things like ‘get over it, kid.’ But times are changing, and we’re making sure our members know it’s okay to ask for help.†So far, the department has partnered with several local mental health organizations to provide comprehensive services, including counseling and addiction treatment. In addition, DFR is rolling out resiliency training for current employees—something that has already been offered to new recruits but not to active staff before. This training helps firefighters and paramedics cope with the emotional toll of their demanding jobs. Dock Leveler,Hydraulic Dock Lifts,Hydraulic Dock Plate,Customizable Telescopic Dock Leveler Porema (Suzhou) Logistics Machinery and Equipment Co., LTD , https://www.jsporema.com
Post Traumatic Stress in the fire service