News

Healing Bridges, along with various first responder departments throughout Washington County, are spearheading a Responders First Initiative to develop a Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team in Washington County to help first responders who are suffering from the devastation of post-traumatic stress disorders, depression, anxiety and suicide. *Approximately 45% of first responders have thought about taking their own life at some point *Suicide accounts for roughly 15% of all deaths among firefighters *Police officers are 1.5 times more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty *First responders are 2.3 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population *Over 1,000 first responders die by suicide annually in the U.S. *Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects nearly 30% of first responders, increasing suicide risk *Only 20% of first responders seek mental health support regularly, despite high prevalence of mental health issues. The mental health stigma is a significant barrier preventing emergency first responders from seeking help. A CISM team made up of various trained first responder peers and licensed mental health professionals have been proven to be very successful with assisting a first responder to seek help by offering crucial crisis intervention and support. This evidenced-based critical intervention and stress management team is designed specifically to mitigate the psychological impact of trauma for first responders by providing a structured process to reduce the impact of trauma, foster resilience to develop better and stronger coping skills, and demonstrates a commitment to support those who work in these fields. Many counties surrounding Washington County in Western PA have established CISM teams, however, Washington County does not.

Grief and Loss Group

The Department of Public Safety and Healing Bridges, alongside many dedicated participants and representatives from the first responder community, are coming together for a vital event to shed light on the symptoms of trauma affecting Police, Fire, EMT, and Dispatcher professionals. These brave individuals often face traumatic experiences without the time or resources to process or heal before responding to the next call. This collaborative initiative will focus on establishing a Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team in Washington County, with the goal of prioritizing the mental health and well-being of first responders. Healing Bridges is truly honored to work with such an incredible coalition of law enforcement, fire services, EMS, human services, chaplaincy, and safety professionals to bring this initiative to life—especially during National First Responder's Month, a time dedicated to recognizing and supporting those who serve our communities selflessly.

Healing Bridges will be participating is this year's WCCF Gives on September 18th!

Healing Bridges offers group therapy sessions that are designed to offer support, growth, and connection in a safe and collaborative environment.