Resource List for First Responders

This list will be updated as I learn of other reputable resources for first responders and others interested in learning more about PTSD, traumatic stress, and related topics. Since the major research area for PTSD is the military many of the resources are under the VA, but the information is applicable to most people with a traumatic stress diagnosis.

NOTE: I receive no compensation from the following organizations. They are listed as a resource only. The information here is not meant to replace a diagnosis from a licensed mental health professional.

  • Helplines:
  • Fire/EMS Helpline: 1-888-731-3473
  • Safe Call Now: 1-206-459-3020
  • FBHA: 847-209-8208
  • COPLINE: 1-800-267-5463
  • Nat’l Suicide Hotline: 1-800-273-8255

National Center for PTSD – “The National Center for PTSD conducts research and provides education on the prevention, understanding and treatment of PTSD.”

On Facebook: National Center for PTSD – U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

PTSD Decision Aid from the National Center for PTSD

VA screening tools (confidential) for PTSD, Depression, Substance Abuse, Alcohol Use

National Institute of Mental Health – Post -Traumatic Stress Disorder read the information on this link for a listing of signs and symptoms, risk factors, treatment and therapies.

Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance – Self Assessment – a self-screening for suicide ideations for firefighters/EMT

International Association of FirefightersIAFF Behavioral Health Program

Next Rung Website – “We are a nonprofit with a mission to combat mental health issues in First Responders by offering peer support and scholarships for licensed counseling.” Next Rung on Facebook

PTSD in Paramedics, EMTs, First Responders on Facebook – “You no longer have to suffer in silence, you are not alone. We are here to help.” Website: Project Hope: EMS

Compassion Fatigue: Figley Institute

Trauma support: Gift From Within – An international nonprofit organization for survivors of trauma and victimization. Gift From Within Free webcasts

Confidential online screening for mental health issues – from, The Summit Counseling Center, North Fulton County, GA

Mission FISH USA – “The Purpose of Mission FISH., FISHING, INTERACTING SHARING & HEALING  is to organize and plan fishing day trips and provide FISH therapy for PTSD and TBI for Veterans, Active duty service members, 1st responders and Gold Star families.”

Reboot Recovery – “REBOOT is different. Our courses are led by people who have been there, lived through it, learned from it, and want to help lead others out of it. We are a community of people committed to helping each other heal from the spiritual and emotional impact of daily stress and trauma. You won’t find shortcuts or easy answers but rather solutions that last. Families just like yours are experiencing healing at this very moment. Your healing can start today.”

Save a WarriorSave A Warrior has changed countless lives through our “War Detox” program, which supports the healing from Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS). We specialize in connecting Active Duty Military, Returning Veterans, and First Responders experiencing psychological trauma. 

Suicide prevention:

Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Suicide Prevention Resource Center

Suicide prevention workshops:

Soul Shop Movement

Armed Forces Mission – 911

Books:

Achilles in Vietnam: Combat Trauma and the Undoing of Character

Compassion Fatigue: Coping With Secondary Traumatic Stress Disorder In Those Who Treat The Traumatized

Odysseus in America: Combat Trauma and the Trials of Homecoming

Resilience: The Science of Mastering Life’s Greatest Challenges