February 24, 2023 | Alex Terlecky

Support for Colorado Firefighters is now available.

Discussing behavioral health issues can be a difficult task. This is especially true when behavioral health doesn’t seem like a “real” problem. Or one that you should be able to solve on your own.

If you know someone who is suffering but are unable to get through to them, or if you are someone who is suffering but don’t feel comfortable exploring support options, we discuss some ways to move forward.

How to Communicate with Staff and Teammates

Here are some tips for communicating to first responders and firefighters that it’s okay to receive mental health treatment and support:

• Lead by example. If you’re in a leadership position, make it a priority to prioritize your own mental health and seek support when needed. This sends a message that mental health is important and encourages others to do the same.
• Use clear and direct language. When talking about mental health and seeking treatment, use clear and direct language that conveys that these are normal, important aspects of overall well-being. Avoid using language that could be interpreted as stigmatizing or negative.
• Address stigma and myths. Address any misconceptions or negative attitudes towards mental health and seeking treatment head-on. This can help dispel stigma and reduce the shame that individuals may feel about seeking support.
• Highlight the benefits of seeking treatment. Emphasize the positive outcomes of seeking mental health treatment and support, such as improved well-being, increased resilience, and enhanced ability to serve the community.
• Provide resources and support. Make sure that first responders and firefighters have access to mental health resources and support and encourage them to take advantage of these resources when needed.
• Foster a culture of openness and support. Encourage an open and supportive culture by promoting open and honest communication about mental health and seeking treatment. Encourage individuals to share their experiences and provide support to one another.

By using these tips, you can help communicate to first responders and firefighters that it’s okay to receive mental health treatment. This creates a culture that prioritizes and supports mental well-being.

Beating the Stigma: Common Misconceptions About Behavioral Health Treatment

There are many stigmas and myths surrounding mental health treatment, but some of the most common include:

• Mental health issues are a sign of weakness. This stigma suggests that individuals with mental health issues are somehow weaker or less capable than others. In reality, mental health issues can affect anyone and seeking treatment is a sign of strength and courage.
• Mental health treatment is not effective. This myth suggests that mental health treatment is not effective and is not worth pursuing. In reality, mental health treatment can be highly effective, especially when tailored to individual needs and delivered by trained professionals.
• Mental health treatment is only for serious mental illness. This stigma suggests that mental health treatment is only necessary for individuals with serious mental illnesses. In reality, mental health treatment can benefit anyone who is struggling with mental health issues, regardless of the severity of their symptoms.
• Mental health treatment is only for people who can’t handle their problems: This stigma suggests that individuals who seek mental health treatment are unable to handle their problems on their own. In reality, seeking treatment is a proactive step that individuals take to manage their mental health and maintain their well-being.
• Mental health treatment is only for individuals with long-term problems. This myth suggests that mental health treatment is only necessary for individuals with long-term mental health issues. In reality, mental health treatment can be beneficial for individuals facing short-term or situational mental health challenges, as well as those with long-term issues.
• By addressing and debunking these stigmas and myths, individuals can reduce shame and stigma surrounding mental health treatment and encourage individuals to seek support when they need it.

Support for Fire Departments

The Colorado Firefighter Benefits Trust has recently expanded their program to provide reimbursement for firefighters seeking behavioral health support. This coverage applies to all Colorado firefighters, per SB 22-002. Firefighters’ health has always been a top priority, whether that’s focusing on the importance of nutrition, early cancer screening, or the success stories of other fire department’s behavioral health outreach.

The Trust is now accepting claims to support fire departments and staff. There is no cost to participate as long as the funding lasts.

The program is reimbursing deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket expenses not covered by existing benefit programs. The program will also reimburse for additional treatments and therapies, even after current plan benefits run out. If you do not currently have a behavioral health provider, you can view ones that specialize in First Responders at cfhtrust.com/behavioral. For details on one specific provider, read more about the organization ResponderStrong.

For more information, visit cfhtrust.com/behavioral or view our program webinar.

Crisis Support

If you or someone you know are in need of suicide or crisis support, there is help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is now: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.