Putting First Responders First by Emily

Putting First Responders First by Emily - February 2020 Scholarship Essay

If I were to start a nonprofit organization, I would dedicate it to first responders and their psychological resilience. A recent study conducted by the University of Phoenix found that nearly eighty-five percent of first responders had experienced symptoms related to mental health problems, specifically depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (Amato, 2017). Unfortunately, first responders are not typically given the resources they need to combat these problems due to lack of funds, as well as the lingering stigma that surrounds those in public safety needing psychological support.

My organization would work to reduce that stigma by educating the public and making it known that it is okay to not be okay. This not only would benefit the general public but it would also be advocating for those who are not necessarily able to advocate for themselves. First responders, including firefighters, EMS workers, law enforcement and dispatchers are continually put under immense stress and are often expected to just be fine. As an Emergency Medical Technician myself, I know that it is not that easy. My organization would strive to provide mental health services to first responders so that they can continue to do their job while also having a happy, healthy life. I would want to hold workshops, trainings, events, and fundraisers- creating a safe place to talk about mental health.

I just described my career goal. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Sacramento State with hopes to help my community. I am so passionate about mental health and, as a first responder myself, would love nothing more than to help out those who sacrifice so much to help others.

Works Cited

Amato, V. (2017, May 9). Survey Shows High Rates of Depression, PTSD Among First Responders. Retrieved February 1, 2020, from https://www.emsworld.com/article/12333043/survey-shows-high-rates-of-depression-ptsd-among-first-responders