KILLEEN, TX — According to a survey on first responder mental health conducted by the University of Phoenix, as of 2017 more than 80% of first responders, including firefighters, police officers, EMT-paramedics and nurses have experienced symptoms related to mental health issues.
It’s because of that alarming statistic that the North Texas chapter of the EMS Roaddocs, a club made up of medical, fire and military personnel, decided to create a non-profit called SAFER.
"It stands for selfless acts for emergency responders,” said Chapter President Wesley William.
The SAFER initiative was originally started to tend to the physical needs of their fellow first responders.
“We would go out and take water to fire departments and take food to them and stuff like that,” Williams said.
It was through their passion for motorcycles and their experiences that the members realized there was a big need in their community, a need to help emergency responders in another way- an emotional way.
“Later, we started to hear more and more about our brothers and sisters committing suicide and felt that we needed to do more than what we were doing,” said William.
Statistics show at least 34% of first responders have received a formal mental health disorder diagnosis, like depression or PTSD.
Because of the increased suicide rate, the EMS Roaddocs expanded the SAFER initiative to better serve the emotional needs of their EMS community.
"We went more into the supporting and helping people understand that it's okay to talk to someone and not build it all up. I mean the things we see in our career, it's pretty tough to see over and over," Williams said.
The Roaddocs are now hoping to start PTSD awareness groups through the club’s non-profit.
"If we can stop one person, one person from taking those pills, pulling that trigger then everything that we are doing is worth it," said Williams.
The club needs financial help getting the groups started which is why they are hosting a fundraiser on Oct. 26.
The fundraiser will include a poker run and a car show, among other things. If you are interested in being part of the event, you can register here.
