As the COVID pandemic enters its third year in the United States, first responders and communities continue to struggle with daily and accumulated stressors. Every person has been impacted by the COVID pandemic, and unfortunately many people have suffered significant and life-changing losses. Holistic health—wellness in body, mind, and spirit—is important to help deal with the uncertainty of the immediate and long-term future. To support first responders, front-line workers, parents, and community members, federal agencies are working with state and local partners to provide a wide range of resources available at no cost for first responders and their families.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline provides free multilingual and confidential crisis support 24/7 to address stress, anxiety, and other symptoms that are common after a disaster. Call or text 800-985-5990 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

In addition to COVID, many communities have been devastated by weather events such as floods and tornadoes, mass violence events and trigger events like anniversaries of loss. Immediate assistance for anyone considering self-harm is available through a number of helplines, including the following:

• The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline will connect callers with the closest crisis center for help; call 800-273-TALK (8255)
• Coming in June 2022: Text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 and receive immediate response
• Veterans Crisis Line: 800-273-8255 (press 1)
• SAMHSA Treatment Referral Helpline: 877-SAMHSA7 (877-726-4727)
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Homefront Mental Health Resources for military and family members

A host of resources can be found on MentalHealth.gov related to mental and holistic health, including how to talk with family and friends about concerns. The website has specific information for educators, faith leaders, caregivers, family members, children, and teens.

The National Institute of Mental Health has shareable resources on coping with COVID-19, including self-care and simple stress management tools such as six steps to coping with COVID. Many people find simple changes in daily routine—such as limiting exposure to news and making time to unwind each day—can have a big impact on overall wellness.

SAMHSA also offers the First Responders and Disaster Responders Resource Portal with resources and technical assistance specifically for law enforcement who are exposed to demanding and tense situations on a regular basis—especially during and after disasters.

The COPS Office has added numerous resources for first responders and their families, including the following:

• Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness (LEMHWA) Topic Page
• Family Matters: Executive Guide for Developing Family-Friendly Policies, Procedures, and Culture
• Wellness Provider Vetting Guide

One message that is consistent across a variety of resources and tools is that stress and anxiety are common reactions during crisis, such as a pandemic. Self-care is encouraged and vital to support first responders and their families throughout 2022.

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