Mind Over Mayday

Tag: suicide

  • The Need for Expanded Crisis Intervention Services in Maine and Training for First Responders

    The Need for Expanded Crisis Intervention Services in Maine and Training for First Responders

    Crisis intervention is one of the most challenging yet critical aspects of public service, especially in rural states like Maine. As a first responder and mental health advocate, I’ve seen firsthand how the gaps in crisis intervention services directly affect the well-being of individuals and communities. In a state where resources are already limited, these gaps can leave vulnerable populations without the support they desperately need during moments of crisis.

    At the same time, first responders often find themselves at the forefront of these crises, acting as the first—and sometimes only—line of support. However, without proper training in crisis intervention, many of us are left feeling unprepared to provide the level of care these situations demand.

    This blog post dives into the current state of crisis intervention services in Maine, the challenges first responders face, and why Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) is essential for improving outcomes for everyone involved.

    Limited Crisis Intervention Services in Maine

    Maine faces unique challenges when it comes to crisis services:

    1. Geographical Barriers: With vast rural areas and small towns, access to crisis services can be a logistical nightmare. Individuals in remote areas may face significant delays in receiving the help they need.
    2. Understaffed Crisis Teams: Many regions lack sufficient crisis intervention professionals, meaning teams are often overworked and unable to respond promptly to calls. Wait times for follow-up care can stretch for weeks or even months.
    3. Lack of Comprehensive Support: For many individuals experiencing a mental health crisis, emergency rooms and law enforcement become the default points of contact. These systems are not designed to provide the kind of holistic care that mental health crises often require.
    4. Stigma and Misinformation: Stigma around mental health often prevents individuals from seeking help until the situation escalates into a full-blown crisis. This further strains the limited resources available.

    The Role of First Responders in Crisis Situations

    First responders—EMS, firefighters, and law enforcement—are often the first to arrive when someone is experiencing a crisis. We are tasked with de-escalating volatile situations, ensuring safety, and providing care until further support is available. Yet, without specialized training, many of us lack the tools needed to address the mental health component of these emergencies effectively.

    The emotional toll of these encounters can also weigh heavily on first responders, leading to burnout, compassion fatigue, and mental health challenges of our own. The lack of adequate training amplifies these challenges, leaving responders feeling overwhelmed and underprepared.

    The Importance of Crisis Intervention Training (CIT)

    Crisis Intervention Training equips first responders with the skills to handle mental health crises effectively. CIT focuses on de-escalation techniques, communication strategies, and understanding the signs and symptoms of mental illness. It empowers responders to:

    • De-escalate situations without the use of force.
    • Provide immediate, compassionate care to individuals in crisis.
    • Connect those in crisis with appropriate resources, reducing the likelihood of repeated emergencies.
    • Recognize their own emotional responses to these situations, fostering resilience and mental wellness.

    States that have implemented CIT programs have seen remarkable outcomes, including reduced injuries to both responders and individuals in crisis, fewer arrests of individuals experiencing mental health emergencies, and better long-term outcomes for those individuals.

    Notable examples include:

    Tennessee

    Tennessee has developed a comprehensive statewide CIT program, emphasizing collaboration between law enforcement and mental health professionals. The program focuses on training officers to de-escalate crises and connect individuals to appropriate services, resulting in reduced arrests and improved safety.

    Namitn

    Ohio

    Ohio has established a robust CIT program with a focus on community-based responses to mental health crises. The state’s approach includes specialized training for law enforcement and strong partnerships with mental health agencies, leading to better outcomes for individuals in crisis.

    Mental Health Portland

    Maryland

    Anne Arundel County’s CIT program in Maryland has been recognized for its excellence, receiving a platinum certification from CIT International. This distinction highlights the program’s adherence to best practices in crisis intervention and its success in fostering collaboration between law enforcement and mental health services.

    CBS News

    Minnesota

    Minneapolis launched the Behavioral Crisis Response (BCR) program, dispatching unarmed mental health professionals to 911 calls involving behavioral health crises. Since its inception in 2021, BCR has responded to approximately 20,000 calls, providing timely and compassionate services, and has been praised for its effectiveness in addressing mental health emergencies.

    Wikipedia

    Oregon

    Eugene’s CAHOOTS (Crisis Assistance Helping Out On The Streets) program serves as a model for alternative crisis response. Operating since 1989, CAHOOTS dispatches teams of medics and crisis workers to respond to mental health crises, reducing the burden on police and emergency medical services. The program has inspired similar initiatives across the country.

    Wikipedia

    These examples demonstrate the effectiveness of CIT programs in enhancing responses to mental health crises through training, collaboration, and innovative approaches. Implementing similar programs can lead to better outcomes for individuals in crisis and the communities they reside in.

    A Call to Action for Maine

    To address the gaps in crisis intervention services and training, Maine needs to take action:

    1. Increase Funding for Crisis Services: This includes hiring more crisis workers, expanding mobile crisis units, and improving access to follow-up care.
    2. Mandate CIT for First Responders: Making CIT a standard part of first responder training would better prepare us for the realities of our jobs and improve outcomes for individuals in crisis.
    3. Raise Awareness: Public education campaigns can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage individuals to seek help before crises occur.
    4. Collaborate Across Disciplines: Bringing together mental health professionals, first responders, and policymakers can foster innovative solutions tailored to Maine’s unique challenges.

    Conclusion

    The role of crisis intervention is not just about responding to emergencies—it’s about creating a system of support that prevents crises from happening in the first place. For first responders like myself, Crisis Intervention Training offers a pathway to more compassionate and effective care. For Maine, investing in crisis services and training represents a commitment to the well-being of our residents and the health of our communities.

    As a state, we have an opportunity to lead the way in creating a model of crisis response that prioritizes humanity, understanding, and resilience. Let’s rise to that challenge—together.

  • National Legislative Efforts for First Responder Mental Health: Why We Must Keep Raising Our Voices

    National Legislative Efforts for First Responder Mental Health: Why We Must Keep Raising Our Voices

    First responders are the backbone of our communities, showing up during our worst moments to protect, heal, and save lives. Yet, the toll of witnessing trauma and carrying the weight of those experiences is often overlooked. Despite the undeniable need, resources for mental health support remain inadequate. Thankfully, there are growing efforts at the national level to address these issues, but it’s up to us to ensure they don’t fall through the cracks.

    In a previous post, I discussed how first responders can engage in policy advocacy to create meaningful change. Now, let’s dive into the current legislative efforts and why your voice is crucial in pushing these initiatives forward.

    Current Legislative Efforts

    1. First Responders Wellness Act

    Introduced in July 2024 by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Josh Hawley (R-MO), this bipartisan bill proposes the creation of a grant program to enhance mental health services for first responders. It also includes the establishment of a national mental health hotline specifically for law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs, and others on the frontlines.

    Current Status: The bill has been referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, where it awaits further review.

    2. CARE for First Responders Act (H.R.6415)

    Introduced in the House in November 2023, this bill seeks to provide specialized mental health, substance abuse, and crisis counseling services to first responders. The aim is to address the unique challenges these professionals face, including chronic stress and burnout.

    Current Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management for further discussion.

    3. Fighting Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Act of 2023

    Reintroduced by Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) in early 2023, this legislation aims to establish programs designed to help first responders cope with the long-term effects of trauma, such as PTSD and depression.

    Current Status: Under consideration, with ongoing discussions about how to best implement and fund these programs.

    The Alarming Reality: Suicide Rates Among First Responders

    The mental health challenges faced by first responders are profound, with suicide rates notably higher than those of the general population. A study by the U.S. Fire Administration analyzing data from 2015 to 2017 found that first responders accounted for 1% of all suicides during that period. Within this group, 58% were law enforcement officers, 21% were firefighters, 18% were EMS providers, and 2% were public safety telecommunicators.

    Further research indicates that 37% of fire and EMS professionals have contemplated suicide, a rate nearly ten times higher than that of American adults. A 2018 white paper by the Ruderman Family Foundation revealed that police officers and firefighters are more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty.

    These statistics underscore the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support tailored to the unique challenges faced by first responders.

    The Need for Continued Advocacy

    Legislative efforts like these are an incredible step forward, but they can’t stop here. Bills like the First Responders Wellness Act and the CARE for First Responders Act are only the beginning. To make real change, we need to ensure these efforts are not only passed but also expanded upon and adequately funded.

    Mental health is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for the longevity and well-being of the people who protect us. Without proper support, first responders face increased risks of burnout, PTSD, depression, substance use, and even suicide.

    What Can We Do?

    As I’ve shared before, first responders have a unique and powerful voice in policy advocacy. Here’s how we can ensure these bills move forward and inspire further action:

    1. Contact Your Representatives

    Share your story and explain why these bills matter. Personal accounts from first responders carry immense weight in demonstrating the need for change.

    2. Raise Awareness

    Use your platform, whether it’s social media, local meetings, or community events, to inform others about these legislative efforts.

    3. Collaborate

    Partner with advocacy organizations focused on first responder mental health. Groups like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and local firefighter and EMS unions are often at the forefront of these battles.

    4. Stay Engaged

    Track the progress of these bills and hold your representatives accountable. If progress stalls, follow up.

    A Call to Action

    The time for action is now. Legislative momentum can waver without visible public support. It’s up to us to keep the conversation alive, push for better mental health resources, and ensure that the government invests in the well-being of first responders.

    We must continue to demand more—not just for the passage of these bills, but for the expansion and funding of mental health initiatives across the board. When we advocate for ourselves and our peers, we create a safer, healthier future for everyone.

    Let’s raise our voices together and ensure that these critical efforts become law. The well-being of our first responders depends on it.

    If you’re unsure where to start with policy advocacy, check out my previous post on how first responders can get involved. Let’s make our voices heard!

  • Honoring Our Fallen: How to Cope with the Loss of a Colleague

    Honoring Our Fallen: How to Cope with the Loss of a Colleague

    Losing a colleague in the line of duty is one of the most painful and difficult experiences any first responder can face. Whether the loss is sudden or after a long battle, the weight of grief is a burden that we often carry silently, never fully knowing how to process the emotions that arise. As someone who has attended several memorials and funerals for fallen EMS professionals and firefighters, I want to share my personal experiences and offer advice on how we can cope with the loss of a colleague, while continuing to honor their memory and legacy.

    My First Experience: The Funeral of Sawyer Coleman

    My journey into understanding grief within the first responder community began with the funeral of Sawyer Coleman, a talented EMS professional and firefighter who tragically took his own life. He had worked his way from a Basic EMT to a Paramedic, eventually becoming a Registered Nurse and even instructing at the United Training Center. It was at this funeral that I truly understood the weight of our profession’s losses.

    What struck me the most that day was hearing Sawyer’s son speak about his father. He described an incredible man who inspired so many, not just through his work, but through the love and care he showed to his family and colleagues. This was a man who had a profound impact on so many lives, yet his internal struggles were hidden from view. Sawyer’s death affected the entire EMS community, and the ripples of that action could be felt far and wide.

    That funeral was not just a ceremony for remembering a fallen colleague; it was a wake-up call for all of us. It made me realize how important it is to honor our fallen brothers and sisters, and how crucial it is to address the mental health struggles that so many in our community face.

    Joining the Maine EMS Honor Guard

    The gravity of Sawyer’s funeral inspired me to join the Maine EMS Honor Guard. It was my way of showing respect and solidarity with those who had given their lives in service to others. The first funeral I attended as a member of the Honor Guard was that of Scott Latulippe, a paramedic who, like Sawyer, took his own life after a long battle with his mental health. Scott’s death, and the fact that he had reached out for help through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) but could not find the support he needed, deeply saddened me.

    Scott’s wife, Julie Latulippe, has become an advocate for mental health within the first responder community. She has led the charge in the state of Maine to create “Clubhouse” meetings, where first responders can gather to discuss their experiences and the gaps in mental health support services. Julie’s work is a shining example of how we can turn our grief into action and fight for the changes that need to be made in our industry.

    Processing Grief in the First Responder Community

    Grief can affect us in different ways. Some may find purpose in loss, using it as a catalyst to fight for causes that matter, such as better mental health resources for first responders. Others may turn to their colleagues, community, or faith for comfort and support. But there are those of us who struggle with depression, despair, and a sense of hopelessness, especially when proper outlets for grief are not readily available.

    It is critical that we break the stigma surrounding mental health within our profession. We must create an environment where it’s okay to talk about trauma, mental health, and our struggles without fear of judgment. This begins by supporting each other, being there for our colleagues, and acknowledging that grief, though difficult, is part of our healing process.

    The Stages of Grief and How to Work Through Them

    Grief is a deeply personal experience, but there are common stages that many of us will go through when processing the loss of a colleague. Understanding these stages can help us recognize where we are in our own grief process and provide methods for coping with each stage.

    1. Denial
      It’s hard to believe that someone we worked alongside is truly gone.
      Coping Mechanism: Acknowledge the feelings of disbelief and talk to someone who understands your profession. Writing down your emotions or even attending a memorial service can help you process the reality of the loss.
    2. Anger
      We may feel angry at the circumstances, at the person for leaving us, or even at ourselves for not seeing the signs.
      Coping Mechanism: Channel your anger into something constructive, such as advocating for mental health awareness, or find a physical outlet like exercise or journaling to express your feelings.
    3. Bargaining
      We might ask ourselves if there was anything we could have done to prevent the loss.
      Coping Mechanism: Accept that you did your best. Seek out peer support or professional counseling to process the “what-ifs” and let go of guilt.
    4. Depression
      The reality of the loss hits us hard, and we may feel sadness or despair.
      Coping Mechanism: It’s important to not isolate yourself. Reach out to trusted colleagues or friends who understand the unique nature of your grief. Seeking professional counseling can also provide a safe space to work through depression.
    5. Acceptance
      Eventually, we come to terms with the loss and find a way to continue living our lives, honoring the memory of our colleagues.
      Coping Mechanism: Focus on ways you can honor their legacy, whether it’s through volunteering, advocacy, or simply remembering the impact they had on others.

    Helpful Resources for First Responders

    For those of us who are struggling to cope with grief, there are books that can help guide us through the process. Here are a few recommendations:

    1. “The First Responder’s Guide to Coping with Death” by Jeff Mitchell
    2. “Resilience: Hard-Won Wisdom for Living a Better Life” by Eric Greitens
    3. “The Healing Power of Grief: A Guide for First Responders” by Robert J. Wicks

    Conclusion: Finding Strength in Grief

    The loss of a colleague is never easy, but it is through our collective grief that we can find strength. By honoring our fallen brothers and sisters, supporting each other, and breaking the stigma around mental health, we can ensure that their legacy lives on. It is crucial that we continue to have conversations about mental health, seek support when needed, and be there for our colleagues in their time of need.

    Remember, we are not alone in this journey. As first responders, we are a community, and together, we will heal. Let us continue to honor those we have lost and work towards a future where no one has to suffer in silence.

    In the end, our strength is found in each other. Together, we rise.

    For more information on the statewide “Clubhouse” meetings, or to join the email list, go to the Contact Me page, and get in touch.

  • A Suicide Survivor’s Journey: From Darkness to Purpose

    A Suicide Survivor’s Journey: From Darkness to Purpose

    In 2009, during my Freshman year of High School, my world collapsed under the weight of emotions I didn’t fully understand. In an alcohol-induced blackout on New Year’s Eve, drowning in hopelessness, I overdosed on Tylenol. By the time I could remember what I had done, three days had passed, and my liver was in critical condition. My liver enzymes had risen to levels above 40,000, and my body had suffered several blood pressure spikes, bringing me perilously close to a stroke. It was an act born of pain—a desperate cry from someone who felt lost in the dark. Yet, by some miracle, I survived.

    My recovery was nothing short of a medical marvel, made possible by the compassionate and skilled teams at Stephen’s Memorial Hospital, Maine Medical Center’s Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital, and the dedicated crew at Lifeflight of Maine. Their expertise and care saved my life. But recovery was more than just healing my body; it was about facing the deeper wounds—the mental and emotional scars—that had led me to that point. It was about finding ways to cope with the chaos surrounding my life at the time, and building better resilience to the challenges I faced in life.

    Waking up in the aftermath of my attempt wasn’t easy. I was fragile, both physically and emotionally, and consumed by shame. But surviving forced me to confront the depth of my mental health struggles. It set me on a long and winding road toward healing—a journey filled with setbacks and doubts, but also with reclaimed hope and personal growth. Along the way, I discovered the transformative power of self-awareness, professional care, and a steadfast commitment to change. I had many clinicians along the way that contributed to my healing, and taught me mechanisms and strategies for coping that I still practice today.

    Sobriety became another cornerstone of my journey. On July 29, 2020, I made the decision to live a life free from mind-altering substances, including alcohol and marijuana, after falling into the grips of addiction in college. This choice was critical for my mental and physical well-being, ensuring that my prescribed medications worked effectively and allowing me to return to healthier coping mechanisms. Sobriety has brought me clarity, strength, and a deeper understanding of what it means to live authentically. It brought me community, connection, and a deeper relationship with a Higher Power. It’s a decision that made it possible for me to begin my work in the field as a first responder.

    That defining chapter began in November of 2020 when I found a new sense of purpose in the field of emergency medical services. I started out driving an ambulance at a rural service, became an EMT in 2021, and took the next step by becoming a firefighter in 2022. Today, I work in the emergency department of one of Maine’s largest hospitals, using my EMT license to provide care and comfort to patients during some of their most difficult moments. These roles have not only helped me find meaning in my own life but have also allowed me to connect deeply with others in life-changing ways.

    Working at different levels in the field of emergency services has shaped my understanding of resilience and purpose. It’s not just about the care we provide in the heat of the moment—it’s about what happens after the sirens fade and the adrenaline wears off. I’ve seen firsthand how stress and trauma can take a toll on first responders. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to support my peers, helping them navigate the unique challenges of our work. I strive to be a voice that says, “You are not alone,” to the men and women who dedicate their lives to saving others.

    The urgency of addressing mental health in emergency services is undeniable.

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), firefighters and law enforcement officers are more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty. EMS clinicians are also more likely to take their own lives compared to the general public.

    To anyone reading this who is struggling: you are not defined by your darkest moments. Healing is possible, and there is a future filled with purpose and connection waiting for you. Whether you’re grappling with mental health challenges, substance use, or the weight of trauma, it’s okay to ask for help. You are not a burden. The path may be long, and it may be difficult, but every small step you take is a step toward strength and resilience.

    Remember that you are not alone in this journey. Surround yourself with supportive people who understand your struggles and can walk beside you as you heal. Embrace the process of self-discovery, be patient with yourself, and celebrate every victory, no matter how small. Transformation takes time, but it is possible. And on the other side, there is a brighter, more fulfilling life waiting for you.

    Let us work together to break the stigma, advocate for better mental health care, and create a culture of support and understanding. Together, we can ensure that even in the darkest hours, no one feels they have to face their struggles alone. There is hope, and the life that follows can be brighter, and more filled with joy, than you ever imagined.