Resources Are Available for Those Needing Help
MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) – Marshfield EMS has recently seen an increase in responses to suicide attempts and wants to remind of available resources and that first responders are there to help.
“We do have resources available that we can provide people with and point them in the right direction,” said Erik Jonas, Deputy Chief of EMS at Marshfield Fire & Rescue Department (MFRD). “We are able to connect people with the help they need.”
As paramedics and EMT’s, there is training that MFRD members complete to help mitigate mental health and emergencies, as do the police.
“As responders, we can’t say that we know exactly what a patient is going through but we do try to have a high level of compassion and empathy with all people and especially those patients struggling with mental health issues,” said Jonas.
He encourages anyone who is struggling to reach out to a loved one, call a help line, or dial 9-1-1.
“Having someone to talk to can be a lifeline for people,” he said. “I would like to make it known that it’s ok to dial 9-1-1 for mental health emergencies. If they don’t know of any other resources, dialing 9-1-1 is a way to get first responders involved.”
After dialing 9-1-1, first responders can help the caller in a way that is appropriate to the caller’s situation.
“As police, fire, and ems, we’re all stewards of the communities that we serve and we want the best for the people living in our communities,” said Jonas. “If dialing 9-1-1 gets that person the help they need, gets the ball rolling, that’s what it’s there for.”
If you are experiencing suicidal feelings, please seek help! Other resources available via https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ or by calling 800-273-8255.
In Wisconsin, NAMI can also help connect with resources: https://namiwisconsin.org/resources/crisis-info
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Author: News Desk
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