Frontline Professionals

As a frontline health care professional, you experience stress daily. Your job places unique demands on you that are not typical for most, and it can add up over time. The COVID-19 pandemic has created additional stressors that may feel overwhelming. NAMI can help.

Let’s face it: first responders often deal with the unimaginable. Maybe it’s one specific call, maybe it’s a series of them. The COVID-19 pandemic has added to an already difficult and frequently dangerous job. The effects of stress are real and should not be ignored. NAMI can help.

If you are in crisis, there are resources you can turn to.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers free, confidential crisis counseling 24/7/365 — and you don’t have to be in crisis to call. 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

If you don’t want to talk on the phone, you can also text. Crisis Text Line offers free 24/7 mental health support. Text “10-18” or “SCRUBS” to 741741 for help.

Safe Call Now is a confidential, comprehensive, 24-hour crisis referral service for all public safety employees, all emergency services personnel and their family members nationwide. Call 1-206-459-3020 or 1-877-230-6060.

You may be hesitant to dial 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 physical wellness. Reach out for support, check on your peers, check in with friends and family.

More

Show a frontline professional that you care by thanking them on social media for their tireless efforts during this difficult time. Please use the hashtags #NotAlone and #FirstRespondersFirst — let’s take care of our frontline professionals, so they can take care of us.

Help spread awareness by downloading images to share on social media.

You can also help NAMI support frontline professionals experiencing the adverse mental health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic by donating any amount.