Resources - Fire
We maintain links to a variety of online resources, lists of trusted mental health professionals, self-help tips, tools of the trade, and additional learning materials. Select a resource section to get started.
The following organizations provide resources specific to firefighters.
Share the Load Program - Taking care of your mental health is as important as managing your physical health. The National Volunteer Fire Council’s Share the Load™ program provides access to critical resources and information to help first responders and their families manage and overcome personal and work-related problems. This includes the Directory of Behavioral Health Professionals as a resource to find local assistance for behavioral health issues.
Firestrong - United Phoenix FIrefighter Charities has created a website of self-help tools and resources that cover the most common stress indicators.
Red H.E.L.P. - It is the mission of Red H.E.L.P. to reduce mental health stigma through education, advocate for benefits for those suffering from post-traumatic stress, acknowledge the service and sacrifice of firefighters we lost to suicide, support families after a suicide and to bring awareness to suicide and mental health issues.
IAFF Behavioral Health Program - There is growing concern about behavioral health issues and the significant impact on wellness. The stresses faced by fire fighters, paramedics and EMTs throughout the course of their careers – incidents involving children, violence, inherent dangers of firefighting and other potentially traumatic events – can have a cumulative impact on mental health and well-being. The IAFF continues to develop resources that educate and support members on behavioral health concerns.
IAFF Center of Excellence - The IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery is a one-of-a-kind treatment facility specializing in PTSD for professional fire service members who struggle with trauma, substance use, addiction and other related behavioral health challenges. It is a safe haven for members to receive the help they need in taking the first steps toward recovery and share experiences with other members who have faced or overcome similar challenges.
Crackyl Magazine Mental Health Articles - Firefighters are aware of the statistics linking firefighter deaths to preventable diseases and illnesses caused by unhealthy lifestyles. One of the leading causes of firefighter deaths is heart attacks. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Bringing answers to the modern firefighter’s burning health questions, we aim to help firefighters identify and put into practice better health choices to increase your chances of a healthier well-being with disease and illness-free careers and retirements.
More first responder, public safety, and general resources can be found on our resources page.