First responders—including 911 dispatchers, police officers, firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical technicians—are increasingly being offered expanded mental health resources as state and local officials work to address the trauma they regularly encounter. A 911 dispatcher named Ty Wooten, who has worked in the industry for more than 30 years, described how he pushed aside the weight of his first call—a suicide witnessed by a 7-year-old—until 15 years later when details triggered a spiral of anxiety, panic attacks and depression.
Research suggests first responders face higher rates of trauma-related mental health challenges than the general public, with repeated exposure increasing the risk of post-traumatic stress, depression and anxiety. A 2025 survey by the National Emergency Number Association found that nearly 70% of telecommunicators reported feeling stress before every shift, with fatigue and anxiety among the most common symptoms.
Several communities are experimenting with new approaches. In Brevard County, Florida, some first responders have access to therapy dogs, peer-to-peer counseling and confidential hotlines. In Virginia, Henrico County firefighters gained access to a new app allowing them to seek mental health support anonymously. Some states have enacted protections: New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a measure providing employment protections for first responders diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder; Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen signed legislation shielding peer support conversations from court proceedings; and Ohio approved $40 million for a PTSD treatment fund.
Many first responders worry about using employee assistance programs because employers might learn what is discussed. However, experts emphasize that seeking support early is essential. Frank Leto, a retired New York City firefighter, noted that after the September 11 attacks, the department’s shift toward training firefighters to support one another “became part of the fabric of the department.” The International Association of Fire Fighters estimated that roughly 15,000 members have been trained in peer support, signaling a cultural shift in how the profession approaches mental health.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://kiowacountypress.net/content/when-helpers-feel-helpless-first-responders-get-boost-mental-health-support