Frontline professionals face many challenges in their day-to-day work life. From the pressure of protecting and caring for others to working long shifts — health care and public safety are stressful fields of work.
The effects of chronic stress, cumulative trauma and shiftwork can feel overwhelming and take a toll on your mental wellness. If you are struggling, you are not alone.
NAMI is here to help. NAMI Frontline Wellness offers resources and tools developed specifically for public safety and health care professionals, and their family members.
As you navigate this site, you will find information and resources that include:
- Peer support
- Confidential, professional support
- Techniques to build resilience
- Support for family members
- Information on how to identify signs of a potential mental health emergency
- Information on alcohol and substance use
- Wellness resources
Additionally, NAMI State Organizations and Affiliates are actively providing education, support and local resources to help public safety and health care professionals, agencies and organizations learn more about mental health. Contact your local NAMI to find out what’s available in your area.
Your bravery and selflessness protect the health and safety of everyone. Your mental health and wellness matter too, and we are here to help provide support.
NAMI is pleased to be a collaborating partner with the #FirstRespondersFirst initiative to support frontline public safety and health care professionals.
Thanks to our partners for making this program possible.
NAMI supports the mental health of Frontline Professionals, and our efforts include advocacy on behalf of health care professionals who face barriers to care. Thus, we are pleased to announce the addition of a public policy position on the issue of mental health questions on licensure application forms for medical professionals.
Health Care Professionals
Health care professionals experience unique stressors and trauma that can add up over time. You may be hesitant to seek support due to stigma — or you may fear that it could create professional risk. Resources and confidential support are available.
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Public Safety Professionals
First responders often deal with the unimaginable — and face additional risk to their health as part of their daily work. The mental and physical effects are real and should not be ignored.
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Suicide Prevention
If you are in crisis, there are resources you can turn to.
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers free, confidential crisis counseling 24/7/365 just by dialing 988 — and you don’t have to be in crisis to call.
If you don’t want to talk on the phone, you can also text 988. Crisis Text Line also offers free 24/7 mental health support. Text “10-18” or “SCRUBS” to 741741 for help.
Safe Call Now is a confidential 24-hour crisis line and support service for first responders, emergency services personnel, medical professionals and their family members nationwide. Call 1-206-459-3020.
You may be hesitant to dial 988 or 911 if you or someone you know is in crisis. Because of your job, you may feel that you don’t want someone from your agency or workplace to respond to a call that involves you. Please don’t let this concern prevent you from seeking assistance. Use the resources, make the call or text for help. You have options, and you are not alone.
Know The Warning Signs
If you are experiencing any of these signs, please don’t wait to find support:
- Withdrawal, or self-isolation from friends, family and colleagues
- Marked changes in mood, increased sadness
- Increased or excessive substance use
- Aggressive, impulsive or reckless behavior
- Comments or thoughts about suicide
- Feelings of being out of control
- Difficulty with concentration and usual activities
- Issues with sleep
There are many potential risk factors for a mental health crisis or suicide, such as cumulative trauma or being injured on the job. There are also protective factors, such as social support from those who understand, access to confidential services and maintaining physical wellness. Reach out for support, check on your peers and check in with friends and family.
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