NYS Survey: First responders facing mental health challenges

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10)--- 6,000 first responders took part in a mental health needs assessment survey conducted by the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.

"Overall, folks are suffering from anxiety, folks are suffering from depression," explained Commissioner Jackie Bray. "38% were suffering from symptoms of PTSD."

Commissioner Bray said it’s understandable considering the high amount of stress and trauma first responders see on a regular basis.

"For me, the most upsetting thing we found was that 16% of our first responders have thought about suicide. That’s compared to about 4% of the general population in New York State. That feels staggering to me," said Bray.

Respondents noted there’s a sigma around getting help.

Dr. Andrew Barry, a psychologist and psychoanalyst, said asking for help is often one of the hardest things a person can do

"They’re afraid of judgement, they are afraid of being given bad assignments at work, not getting assignments, being ostracized, and effectively being pushed out of that community with which they have served so long and feel so close and so safe with," explained Berry.

More than 90% said free and easily accessible services such as therapy and peer support groups would improve first responder mental health.

"I think we are going to have to work a lot with leadership in the first responder community to set the culture that it’s A-Okay to not to be Okay. It’s okay to get help, and actually if you’re getting help for your mental health, you’re even stronger than when you’re not getting help," said Bray.

The state has mental health services such as NY CARES UP, a program specifically meant to help first responders. https://nycaresup.com/

Anyone needing help can call or text the state’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. https://omh.ny.gov/omhweb/crisis/988.html