A brutal truth: in recent years, more firefighters have died by suicide than in the line of duty.
If you’ve ever seen footage of firefighters at work – on the scene of a fatal accident or the frontline of a devastating wildfire – and thought, “Wow. I could never do that,” it’s important to understand that sometimes…
they can’t either.
Image: Wernher Krutein
The fire service is in a mental health crisis.
In 2018, the International Association of Firefighters surveyed 7,000 firefighters and the results were wrenching: 19% have experienced suicidal thoughts, 27% have struggled with substance abuse, and 65% are haunted by memories of traumatic work situations.
Worse, more than 80% of firefighters said that asking for help would make them seem weak or unfit for duty.
And when you factor in a fire culture that has historically embraced a code of silence around mental suffering, you have a recipe for disaster.
But there is hope.
There are now more studies, resources, and organizations devoted to the mental health of firefighters than ever before – and we are committed to making sure that this rising tide lifts the boats of volunteer firefighters too.
Volunteer Fire Foundation has partnered with highly-regarded nonprofit First Responders Resiliency, Inc. (FIRR) to bring resiliency trainings to volunteer firefighters throughout Sonoma County. These live events, led by FIRR founder and retired paramedic Susan Ferren, feature evidence-based skills & strategies to reduce stress and prevent post-traumatic injury.
We could not provide this critical PTSD support without our private donors. Will you please help us help them with a tax-deductible donation today?