We are a community in crisis. First responders are exposed to crisis situations every day. Sometimes these responses become a personal crisis for the first responder. The Texas LODD Task Force recognizes and acknowledges the tremendous sacrifice that first responders and their loved ones make to serve their communities and we realize that sometimes that being willing to sacrifice so much comes at a cost.  This cost is the crisis of a balanced and whole feeling of well-being.  Chronic stress, lack of sleep, continued exposure to trauma, and stigmas can lead to a first responder feeling depressed, fatigued, and sometimes traumatized.  

A first responder’s first contact with trauma, crime, and death can be a defining moment in his or her life. Even with all of the training that law enforcement, firefighters, EMS personnel and dispatchers go through, sometimes we are inadequately prepared for the natural psychological reactions that are common following repeat exposure to the worst of humanity.

 

This year during Fallen First Responder Awareness Month, we are introducing a Stand-Down Week to address suicide awareness and prevention in the first responder industries.  We want to help be a part of turning the tide of emotional and psychological crisis by offering resources and information for your agency to use to address this topic.  While Stand-Down Week 2018 is occurring during the second week in May, these material may be used at any time.  Please feel free to download them and use them to start a discussion within your own agency.

 

Stand Down Week 2019 is dedicated to the memory of Paramedic Ryan Burger who died due to suicide in 2015. Ryan dedicated his life to helping others through his work as a Paramedic for Austin/Travis County EMS.  It is our hope that by sharing his story, creating resources, and opening up channels of dialogue, that we can bring a greater awareness to first responders that there is hope, help, and healing.

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