Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Josh Hawley (R-MO) have introduced the First Responders Wellness Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at addressing the high rates of mental health issues among first responders. The legislation would create a grant program to provide mental health resources and services, as well as establish a dedicated mental health hotline.
Freddie, a 4-year-old goldendoodle, spends his days at American Medical Response (AMR) in Springfield, where he provides emotional support services to first responders and other employees. Freddie is trained in basic obedience and is accustomed to crowds and equipment, which makes him a calming presence in the often-stressful workplace. He visits classrooms, greets people in the hallways, and even helps teach responders how to take a dog’s pulse in accordance with Nero’s Law, which requires EMTs to complete training on how to treat and safely transport injured police dogs. Freddie also accompanies his handler, Melissa Piscatelli, to respond to mass casualty incidents, critical incident stress management debriefings, natural disasters, and large-scale events.
Following the tragic suicide of a Winnipeg firefighter, the Manitoba government is investing in mental health support for first responders. In recognition of the toll that their duties can take on their well-being, three counselors will be funded to provide support specifically to law enforcement officers, paramedics, and firefighters.
The Manitoba government has announced funding for three counselors to provide mental health support to first responders, including law enforcement officers, paramedics, and firefighters. This initiative comes in the wake of the recent death of a Winnipeg firefighter who died by suicide. The government aims to reduce the stigma associated with post-traumatic stress and make it easier for first responders to seek help.
