FirstNet Offers Suicide Prevention Program for First Responders

Image courtesy of iStock

By Tammy Leytham

One hundred thirty-two.

That’s the number of suicides that occur – on average – each day in the United States. In 2022, an estimated 49,449 Americans died by suicide, compared to 48,183 in 2021. 

Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the U.S. and is on the rise for first responders. 

September marks Suicide Prevention Month, a great time for a reminder about the FirstNet Health & Wellness Coalition’s initiative to bridge the treatment gap among first responders, who experience a multitude of stressors throughout their careers.

The very nature of first responders’ jobs leads to cumulative stress. In a study of 1,300 first responders, researchers found that nearly 60 percent were reluctant to seek support due to potential repercussions, according to a FirstNet press release.

First responders often resort to harmful coping strategies, such as drinking, instead of processing their experiences.

Youturn Health, a project of the FirstNet Health & Wellness Coalition, addresses these challenges by offering substance use and behavioral health support for first responders. 

The program uses peer coaches who apply their experiences to help other first responders in making progress. Participants gain access to more than 400 educational videos, available online or through the Youturn Health app at YouTurnhealth.com.

The FirstNet Health & Wellness Coalition is a partnership between AT&T and industry associations, including the International Chiefs of Police. It was created to address the higher rates of depression, post-traumatic stress, burnout, and anxiety among first responders.  

Started in 2020, the coalition integrates responder, community, industry, and academic capabilities to support the health, wellness, and readiness of America’s first responders. It’s made up of more than two dozen members representing more than 5.1 million first responders.

“We’re focused on collaborating with our members to support healthy, well, and resilient first responders who are ready to support public safety at a moment’s notice,” according to an IACP release.

In addition to the Youturn Health app, the FirstNet Health & Wellness Coalition launched the ROG the Dog animal-assisted therapy program in 2021 to support public safety on the front lines.

“Therapy dogs are proven to have a positive impact on mental and physical health – helping to improve coping and recovery, enhance morale, decrease stress, and reduce the effects of PTSD and emotional distress,” according to the IACP release.

The ROG the Dog program is available at locations around the country, including San Diego; Seattle; Las Vegas; Colorado Springs; Arlington, Texas; Topeka, Kansas; Bushnell, Fla.; Philadelphia; Grand Rapids, Mich.; and others.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 800-272-8255. The Copline 24/7 confidential hotline is 1-800-COPLINE (267-5463).