St. Johns County commissioners unanimously approved an allocation of $500,000 from Fire District Rescue Reserve to provide mental health support to St. Johns County Fire Rescue.
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“Suicide is the leading cause of death among firefighters and EMTs, and the repeated exposure to trauma provides a direct link to suicide rates among firefighters and EMTs,” Commissioner Arnold said during the meeting. “Our men and women in Fire Rescue are in crisis. I am speaking to you today, imploring you not only as a member of this board but as a member of this community whose life has been deeply impacted by mental health struggles and the devastation of suicide.”
— SJC Media Release
The approved funding allocation will go toward the contractual establishment of mental health services available 24/7 to Fire Rescue personnel. Services will include professional mental health support in response to critical incidents or long-term exposure to high-stress events.
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