Website: https://988lifeline.org/

At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life's challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you're facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Your conversations are free and confidential.

Brian Abbott has been serving the fire service since 2003. He currently resides in Fairlawn, Ohio and is a back step Fireman at the City of Elyria, Ohio. Brian is a Brothers in Battle Instructor, FDIC H.O.T. Instructor, and a University of Akron Academy Instructor. He has had the opportunity to instruct at numerous conferences across the United States. He holds a passion for Search and Forcible Entry skills and practical prop building. He is one of the original members of Rogue Fire LLC and Mission First LLC. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Kellie, and has a beautiful blended family of 5 boys. When he finds the ability to take time away from investing in the craft, you can find him fly fishing in the Ohio and Pennsylvania tributaries. 

Peer Supports by Ohio District: https://firefightermentalhealth.org/peer-supporters/
Ohio State and District Resources: https://firefightermentalhealth.org/mental-health-treatment/

The OAPFF Peer Support Team will guide members who are struggling to resources which may be helpful in the path toward gaining assistance. Peer Support Team members have been trained in therapeutic communication, crisis intervention, and community resource networking.

They can provide assistance to both active and retired firefighters who are experiencing behavioral health and/or addiction issues. Peer Support Team Members act as a bridge to outside definitive behavioral health/addiction treatment.

Website: https://www.iaffrecoverycenter.com/

A Rehab Center Designed Specifically for IAFF Members. The IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery is a one-of-a-kind treatment facility specializing in PTSD for professional fire service members who struggle with trauma, substance use, addiction and other related behavioral health challenges. It is a safe haven for members to receive the help they need in taking the first steps toward recovery and share experiences with other members who have faced or overcome similar challenges.

Website: https://publicsafety.ohio.gov/what-we-do/our-programs/office-of-first-responder-wellness

ODPS Mental Health Resources: https://publicsafety.ohio.gov/what-we-do/our-programs/office-of-first-responder-wellness/resources-for-first-responders#topics=Mental%20Health%20and%20Wellness

First responders face an increased risk of experiencing behavioral health issues including mental illness and substance abuse disorders. Fear of being seen as weak or not up to the job of a first responder keeps many from seeking help. Responders can build their resilience by increasing awareness about risk factors and warning signs, talking with each other, and using healthy coping strategies.

Website: https://www.samhsa.gov/dtac/disaster-responders

Learn more about signs of stress and stress management including additional resources and online training. First responders face an increased risk of experiencing some mental health and substance use issues and conditions. Fear of being seen as weak or not up to the job of a responder keeps many from seeking help. Responders can build their resilience by increasing awareness about risk factors and warning signs, talking with each other, and using healthy coping strategies.

Website: https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/population-focused-modules/adults/fire-and-ems/

Firefighters and EMS personnel are constantly exposed to traumatic events and life-threatening situations. That can take a toll on mental health. Get your firefighters and EMS personnel certified in Mental Health First Aid for Fire/EMS, a trusted, evidence-based and early-intervention training program.