There is a lack of adequate resources for addressing mental health issues among FDNY Firefighters and EMS workers, which negatively impacts workforce productivity, safety, morale, and family life. Firefighters and EMS workers are routinely exposed to life-threatening and traumatic situations, putting them at a higher risk than the general population for suicidal ideations and PTSD, as displayed in Figure 1. There is an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and a Counseling Services Unit (CSU) to support FDNY members; however, at CSU, there is only crisis response and/or short-term treatment. The main issues with the FDNY include stigma surrounding mental health, punitive consequences, lack of preventative measures, insufficient treatment, and lack of funding. 

 NYC Recommendations:

- Develop and fund peer support program modeled after California’s AB 1116 to enhance immediate mental health support for firefighters.8  
- Integrate mindfulness training as a preventative measure for first responders to improve well-being and reduce anxiety and depression.15