Emergency Medical Services
Emergency Medical Servicemembers (EMS) face many challenges during their career that can lead to serious mental health concerns. It’s important that EMS agencies take action now to address the mental health and wellness of their personnel.
A few reasons why it’s important to address mental health:
• 37% of surveyed EMS have reported to have considered suicide.
• Nearly 7% of surveyed EMS had attempted suicide.
• Due to the high stress nature of the job, EMTs are at high risk for developing psychological disorders
What you can do:
• If you are a leader of an EMS agency, start implementing the CARES UP model for you and your personnel. Contact CARESUP@omh.ny.gov for assistance.
• If you are an EMT, share this website with your supervisor. It’s important to spread the word about CARES UP and how it can help build wellness and resiliency at your agency.
• Complete free trainings and learn from the resources that CARES UP offers.
Why CARES UP can help:
• CARES UP can be a framework for how to create or improve “wellness and resiliency” initiatives for your agency.
• Gain access to tip sheets, guides, templates, and toolkits for how to share resources with your agency.
Start Implementing The CARES UP Model At Your Organization
Examples:
Resources:
- A template on how to develop a list of behavioral health resources for your agency to share with your law enforcement officers
- Behavioral Health Resource List For Uniformed Personnel
- The Balance Of Mental Health & Well-Being For All EMS Providers
- 8-Point Plan Provides Wellness Supports for Clifton Park & Halfmoon EMS Staff
- Colonie EMS Brings New Supports to a Fast-Paced Workforce
References:
Fitch, J. & Marshall, J. (May 2016) Trauma Takes Its Toll: Addressing the mental health crisis in emergency services. Public Management.6-10. https://fitchassoc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/CAREGIVER_STRESS_FINAL.pdf
Troxell, R. Indirect Exposure to the Trauma of Others: The experience of 9-1-1 telecommunicators. 2008, doctoral dissertation. Retrieved from ProQuest Dissertations and Theses. (Accession Order No. AAT 333542).