NAMI Minnesota presented the Minnesota Firefighter Initiative (MnFIRE) with the “Transforming Attitudes Award” at its annual conference on November 9, 2024, at Saint Paul RiverCentre. The Award recognizes an individual or organization that has promoted justice, dignity, and respect and worked to transform attitudes toward people with mental illnesses.

NAMI Minnesota commended MnFIRE for providing Minnesota’s firefighters with the tools they need to prioritize and protect their health by focusing on the three health problems most commonly experienced by those in the fire service: cardiac, emotional trauma, and cancer.

“Firefighters are there for traumatic events but have often suffered in silence, leading to higher rates of depression, substance use, PTSD, and suicide,” said Sue Abderholden, Executive Director of NAMI Minnesota. “The Minnesota Firefighter Initiative works to change attitudes towards treatment among firefighters and provides resources, especially to the many volunteer firefighters across our state. And they are succeeding!”

In 2023, 1,400 firefighters sought assistance, and there have been more than 1,150 counseling visits through the MnFIRE Assistance Program so far this year. NAMI Minnesota applauds MnFIRE for changing attitudes and eliminating barriers to caring for our first responders.

Rebecca Otto, MnFIRE’s Executive Director, accepted the award on behalf of the organization, thanking NAMI Minnesota and emphasizing their ongoing commitment to mental health and community support.

“We’re honored to receive recognition for the work we are doing to improve mental health in the fire service. We are proud of the work we do to fill a critical need in the Minnesota fire service by providing  emotional wellness training, peer support and access to mental health providers – and to positively change attitudes of firefighters around seeking mental health help.”

For confidential help, Minnesota firefighters and their families can always call our 24/7 hotline at 888-784-6634.

Sauk Centre firefighter and EMT Andrea Kerfeld has been in the fire service for 15 years and is a recent addition to the MnFIRE Peer Support team. Andrea and her fellow peer supporters are a crucial support system for Minnesota’s 20,000 firefighters and their families. They provide free and confidential support to their colleagues experiencing personal, emotional or work-related problems.

Andrea shared about her time as a MnFIRE peer supporter and why she finds it incredibly rewarding to help her fire service brothers and sisters prioritize their mental health.

Tell us a little about yourself, your history with the fire service and who you are outside of your role as a firefighter?

I am a lifelong Sauk Centre resident. I’ve been married to my husband Kelly for 23 years. We have three adult daughters, Greta (22), Ellen (20) and Ava (19). My hobbies include gardening, cheering on the Minnesota Twins, and drinking coffee/socializing with friends. My full-time career is a 911 Dispatcher for the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department in Alexandria, MN. I’ve been dispatching for eight years.

My journey in the fire service began a little differently than most, I would guess. As a staff writer for the local newspaper at the time, I thought it would be fun to do a ride-along with the fire department to write a more interesting story for our October Fire Prevention special edition. For approximately six months, I was given a pager and allowed to observe call responses, as well as the department’s meetings and drills. I was hooked! The experience very much reminded me of my time in the Minnesota Army National Guard, as I’d recently completed my eight-year enlistment in the military. I joined the department in March of 2010, becoming the first woman firefighter in Sauk Centre history.

Why did you become a MnFIRE peer supporter?

I am also a member of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office peer support team. Our clinician who leads our team for the County told me about MnFIRE and their peer support program. I very much enjoy my role in peer support and understood the need for more resources in the fire service. I became a peer supporter to help bring awareness to my fellow firefighters of the importance of taking care of their mental health and to help normalize conversations about mental health.

What have you found to be rewarding about your role as a peer supporter?

Learning that we all struggle. While all struggles may not be the same, many of our fears, anxieties and stressors are. I think people often feel they are the only ones experiencing something, so they keep it to themselves out of fear of being judged. When in reality, we all have more in common than not.

What is the most surprising part of being a peer supporter?

While a traumatic call or event may be the trigger or tipping point, it’s hardly the sole reason we may need to reach out for some extra support. Regardless of what we face on the fire/rescue scene, life still goes on! Marriages and relationships still need attention, kids need to be cared for, finances need to be managed, etc. I find it’s usually a combination of stressors that overwhelm a person.

For others who may want to join MnFIRE’s Peer Support program, what qualities make a good peer supporter?

I believe trust is the biggest and most important quality. If people can’t trust you to keep their conversations private, you won’t succeed. The other thing is just being a good listener. You don’t have to have all the answers or the right words. You just need to be able to listen with a compassionate heart and understanding ear.

What practices do you engage in to keep yourself mentally healthy?

I am a big believer in the “you can’t pour from an empty cup” philosophy. I try to be very conscious of my time and where it’s spent and in maintaining a healthy work/life/home balance. Saying “no” is an art I’ve only recently begun to master! Time alone, in complete silence, is a must for me. My faith is also central to my well-being. Spending time in prayer or listening to worship music is my medicine.

What do you believe is the number one thing your fellow firefighters should do to improve their mental health?

Recognize your need to address and maintain it. If you have a brain, you must be mindful of your mental health. Just like you exercise or tend to any other part of your body, realize your brain needs care and attention as well. And it’s not a contest to see who can handle the most! Especially in a male dominated industry, guys like to shoulder more than their fair share. But we can only hold so much. Having a confidential conversation with a member of the Peer Support team may be all you need to get things out in the open, process them and feel better.

What do you see as the most valuable component of the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program (HHAP)?

The awareness it brings to issues. We can’t correct problems unless we know about them.

Anything else you’d like to add?

As firefighters, we wouldn’t hesitate to help someone in physical danger. It’s what we do! But don’t hesitate to help someone who’s struggling mentally, either. If you see someone acting out of character, making off comments, or withdrawing, reach out. A simple text can go a long way in helping someone realize they are not alone.

Help is just a call away

MnFIRE Peer Support is a safe, confidential space to talk about what you’re going through with someone who gets it. Minnesota firefighters and their family members can get connected with a peer supporter by calling our 24-hour helpline at 888-784-6634, and selecting option 2.

For many, the holidays are a time of togetherness and celebration. Yet for firefighters, the season often brings unique challenges that can lead to stress. From missing family moments due to being on call to managing tough calls during the festive season, it’s important to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being during this busy time of year. Here are a few tips to help fend off holiday stress.

Embrace quality over quantity in family time

Being on call or working extra shifts may mean missing out on family holiday traditions, but the time you spend with loved ones, no matter how brief, can still be meaningful. Focus on making the most of the time you do have with loved ones. Whether it’s an early morning breakfast together, enjoying a movie night or catching up on the phone during a break, focus on making the most of the moments you have to connect with your family and friends.

Use self-care to prevent burnout

The holidays can be busy – from festive celebrations to increased call volumes. But it’s important to decompress between calls and commitments. Take a moment for yourself here and there, whether that be practicing a breathing routine, listening to calming music or stepping outside for fresh air. Even small acts of wellness, like staying hydrated, eating nutritious meals and getting more sleep, can help you feel more equipped to handle the season’s challenges.

Use your support system

Lean on others when the holiday stress becomes overwhelming. Whether it’s talking to a friend, family member or fellow firefighter, talking through difficult experiences can help lighten the emotional load.

MnFIRE Peer Support is a safe, confidential space to talk about what you’re going through with someone who gets it. Minnesota firefighters and their family members can get connected with a peer supporter by calling our 24-hour helpline at 888-784-6634.

Seek help if you need it

Tough calls can feel even more difficult during the holiday season. If you’re struggling, seek out support. With the MnFIRE Assistance Program (MAP), firefighters are eligible for professional counseling visits. This confidential, free service is available for all active volunteer, paid-on-call, part-time and full-time Minnesota firefighters and their families, and for all levels of support. Prioritizing your mental health is a step of strength and supports your well-being.

This holiday season, remember to take care of yourself so you can continue to serve your community with strength and dedication. By focusing on small, intentional practices, you can navigate holiday stress while still finding moments of joy and connection with your loved ones and your community.

Contributed by Nicholas E. Blonien, D.O.

Firefighting is stressful, taxing the body and mind in unique ways. Firefighters experience stress while anticipating the next call, upon waking to the alarm in the middle of the night, during work on scene and after tough calls.

Stress 101

Stress is the result of nervous system activation, specifically the sympathetic nervous system, otherwise known as the “fight or flight” response. This response isn’t like an on/off light switch, but rather a light dimmer. The sympathetic nervous system can be mildly activated during times of slight anxiety or fully activated during times of danger/emergency, or anything in between.

The sympathetic nervous system is countered by the parasympathetic nervous system, or the body’s “rest and digest” response. Activation of this component of the nervous system results in calmness and relaxation.

These two systems are in constant opposition of one another, with activity of one predominating appropriately in response to a given situation. When intense physical activity and alertness is required, like when a firefighter is called to action, the sympathetic nervous system predominates. When it’s time to rest, the parasympathetic nervous system predominates.

Some level of stress is good, such as when focus or action is required. But too much too often can take its toll on one’s physical and mental health.

How can I reduce stress?

Structured breathing techniques can help boost parasympathetic nervous system activity and decrease stress during times when increased stress is not appropriate, like preparing for bed or spending time with loved ones. Breathwork can be a powerful tool to help reset after a nighttime call or difficult shift, calm the body in preparation for sleep, or even settle the mind during periods of anxiety and worry.

There are several different breathing techniques that have been shown to decrease stress, and a five to ten-minute session may be all that is needed. Here’s a guide for some of the most common breathing techniques.

Recent research shows the effectiveness of breathwork in improving mood and decreasing physiological arousal. Performing breathwork routinely can be a powerful tool that firefighters can use to combat occupational stress.

Additional resources for managing stress

Confidential mental health resources targeting the stress unique to the fire service – including counseling visits and peer support – are available to Minnesota firefighters and their families at no cost through the MnFIRE Assistance Program. Call 888-784-6634 or click here to learn more and get help.

Kyle Bode has been in the fire service for more than 20 years and he’s a proud MnFIRE peer supporter. Peer supporters like Kyle are a crucial support system for Minnesota’s 20,000 firefighters and their families. They provide free and confidential support to their fire service brothers and sisters experiencing personal, emotional or work-related problems.

We sat down with Kyle to hear more about his experience with MnFIRE Peer Support and how he shows up for fellow firefighters by offering a listening ear.

Tell us a little about yourself, your history with the fire service and who you are outside of your role as a firefighter.

I was recruited by Saint Paul Fire Department’s fire chief at the gym. I had completed active-duty military and I was going to college and working at the gym. I had no clue what I was going to do. It sounded interesting so I applied for the upcoming Saint Paul test. I really didn’t expect to get hired. I remember taking the written test with 3,500 people at the RiverCentre and feeling like I didn’t have a chance. I was hired in the first class off of that list. While I waited for the academy, I was hired as a volunteer for the White Bear Lake Fire Department, where I served for a little over a year. I also served as an Air Force Reserve firefighter for 16 years and retired from the military in 2022.

I live in Blaine with my wife and four kids, ages 4, 8, 12 and 13. Outside of the fire department, most of my time is spent with my family. My wife owns a dance studio, so that also keeps me busy. I enjoy physical challenges and have competed in many marathons, a couple of Ironman Triathlons and also some long-distance rucking events. I prioritize my physical health because it helps me a lot with my mental health.

Why did you become a MnFIRE peer supporter?

I spent several years struggling with my mental health and substance abuse. In 2022, I checked into a first responder treatment facility where I was treated for alcohol abuse and PTSD. I learned so much during that time including better ways to keep myself healthy both mentally and physically. It didn’t take me long to realize that I wasn’t alone. Once I was able to get myself in a healthier space, I realized many of my peers were having similar struggles. In my experience, it is tremendously helpful to be able to talk to another person who has gone through what you are going through, so I pursued becoming a MnFIRE peer supporter.

What is the most rewarding part of being a peer supporter?

I think just being there for another person, so they don’t feel like they are going through it alone. It’s also extremely rewarding to witness and be a part of someone’s journey to feeling better and finding a healthier place in their life.

What is the most surprising part of being a peer supporter?

Unfortunately, I think the most surprising part for me has been witnessing firsthand how many of my peers are struggling. There is a silver lining though, because I have been able to witness some pretty incredible change during that time.

What do you see as the most valuable component of the MnFIRE Hometown Heroes Assistance Program?

The program helps remove a lot of barriers. It makes it much easier for those who need help to get the help. I have sat with peers who have called the hotline and have gotten set up with a therapist, for free, that same day. MnFIRE has done the work and vetted the mental health professionals, so you get connected with the right person. I have used the HHAP and I find it very helpful.

What two suggestions would you share with every Minnesota firefighter to improve their mental health?

I think the most important thing that I would share is that it’s OK to ask for help. We all sign up to do this dangerous job, but the bravest individuals that I have seen are the ones who admit that they are not OK and need help. I also think it’s important to make diet and exercise a priority. I can’t stress enough how much it helps with our mental health. It’s the number-one medicine for our well-being, and it’s free!

Anything else you’d like to add?

In the span of eight years, I tragically lost two of my brothers from the Saint Paul Fire Department to suicide. This heart-wrenching experience underscores the urgent need for anyone grappling with their mental health to reach out for help. Remember, you are not alone. Your loved ones and those around you genuinely care and want to support you. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance.

See more stories like this in our 2024 Taking the Lead impact report.

Help is just a call away

MnFIRE Peer Support is a safe, confidential space to talk about what you’re going through with someone who gets it. Minnesota firefighters and their family members can get connected with a peer supporter by calling our 24-hour helpline at 888-784-6634.

Our trained Peer Support network is made up of firefighters and firefighter family members of all ranks and backgrounds from across the state, and they’re a crucial lifeline to Minnesota’s 20,000 firefighters and their families – from coping with difficult calls to talking through life problems like divorce or a death in the family.

Jen Elleraas, captain and training officer for Garrison Fire & Rescue, is one of those dedicated MnFIRE peer supporters. Here’s our recent interview with Jen where we learned more about the process of getting connected with a peer supporter:

Tell us a little about yourself, your history with the fire service and who you are outside of your role as a firefighter.

I have been a firefighter with Garrison Fire & Rescue since 2019. It’s a rural, paid on-call fire department in Central Minnesota. I also serve as an EMT on the department and casually for an ambulance service. Serving my community as a first responder is one of my greatest honors and has quickly grown into one of my strongest passions. My full-time career has been working in the human services industry for over 20 years. In my free time, I love lake life and spending time with my family and friends.

Why did you become a MnFIRE peer supporter?

Firefighters are servant leaders in their communities answering the call to help others on their worst day. I’m humbled by the honor and privilege to be here to answer the call from a fellow firefighter. Being a peer supporter creates an instant connection because we speak the same language, experience similar things and can relate on the same level. Trauma and grief need a witness and I’m honored to walk beside a fellow firefighter who is bravely traveling on their journey.

What is the most rewarding part of being a peer supporter?

It’s rewarding to support a fellow firefighter and I’ve learned so much from the amazing humans I’ve had the privilege to meet. I am always in awe of the resilience, courage, compassion and commitment of firefighters, who answer the call and put their life on the line before others. It is true bravery when a firefighter answers their own call and reaches out to invest in their emotional well-being.

What is the most surprising part of being a peer supporter?

It’s surprising how much the timeline of connection can vary when supporting my fellow firefighters. Sometimes we connect for a few weeks to talk through a specific incident, and another time I supported a peer for over a year. It is a person-centered approach to benefit the specific needs of that firefighter. There is no timeline or specific commitment. If I am not the right peer match for a firefighter, the firefighter can switch – no questions asked. If a firefighter needs a higher level of care, MnFIRE offers professional counseling sessions at no cost. This program is truly focused on the firefighter to protect and prioritize their emotional health in alignment with MnFIRE’s mission.

What do you see as the most valuable component of the MnFIRE Hometown Heroes Assistance Program?

The program provides vital resources to firefighters in the research-driven areas we need most including cardiac, cancer and emotional health. It provides resources to help fill the gaps for firefighters who experience one of these industry-proven hazards. The Peer Support program is unique, pairing Minnesota firefighters with someone who shares similar experiences, creating an instant connection and trust to be able to open up on the tough stuff we face on and off the fireground.

What two suggestions would you share with every Minnesota firefighter to improve their mental health?

1.) Health is all tied together. Firefighters are often sleep-deprived, trying to grab meals on the go while we balance our family, jobs and relationships. We have to be intentional about our health. Exercise, healthy foods, hydration, laughter and sleep all play a critical role in our emotional well-being. 2.) If you see a fellow firefighter struggling, have the courage to have a conversation. The MnFIRE call line is a quick, easy way to connect someone with resources. The hardest part is making that initial call, so let’s encourage each other to make it. I promise it gets easier from there. We should be spreading the word of MnFIRE like wildfire. It is free, confidential and safe for any firefighter in Minnesota. No one fights fire alone.

See more stories like this in our 2024 Taking the Lead impact report.

Help is just a call away

MnFIRE Peer Support is a safe, confidential space to talk about what you’re going through with someone who gets it. Get connected with a peer supporter by calling our 24-hour helpline at 888-784-6634.

In tandem with our medical experts, dedicated MnFIRE training instructors like Andy Willenbring deliver crucial education about cancer, cardiac, emotional wellness, fitness, nutrition, sleep and more to fire departments across the state – and we couldn’t do it without them.

Andy has been in the fire service for 23 years, a goal of his since he grew up watching his father as a firefighter in White Bear Lake for 30 years. He started as a paid-on-call firefighter and Captain at Maple Grove, and more recently retired as a Lieutenant from the St. Louis Park Fire Department in October 2023. Andy has been a MnFIRE training instructor for four years now and during that time he’s taught nearly sixty trainings to fellow firefighters. We sat down with him to see what inspires him to do this work and how he empowers others to focus more on their well-being and open up about struggles within the fire service.

Why did you want to get involved with MnFIRE and become a training instructor?

I love training and talking to firefighters. It’s one of the best things about being a firefighter. And I got involved with MnFIRE because their Peer Support team got me through some pretty rough, emotionally traumatic times in my life. I thought it would be a great way to give back and tell my story so that no one else has to go through what I went through.

How are the training lessons benefitting Minnesota firefighters? What impact are they having?

I think a lot of people roll their eyes when they hear about a training presentation, but making it interesting – adding my own stories, experience and knowledge – makes it more fun for people to learn and be there. When I talk about my struggles with emotional trauma, it adds a real face to a real problem that many are struggling with and are afraid to talk about. When someone is standing in front of a class talking about their thoughts, nightmares, struggles and legitimately crying, it adds a realness to the training that hopefully makes a difference in someone’s life.

Why is it important for departments to participate in MnFIRE training?

[Cardiac disease, cancer and emotional trauma] are real problems in the fire service. Real problems that can be addressed with some simple changes in the way we live our lives and the way departments operate. I think it’s important for departments to all learn the same things to improve firefighters’ quality of life. No matter the size, location or function, all firefighters in Minnesota are in this together. No matter how different each department is, we all should have the same goal: the health and wellness of all firefighters.

Has there been anything surprising that you’ve learned during your time as a MnFIRE trainer?

I’ve had several firefighters reach out to me from all across the state after a training session and tell me that they have been having emotional trauma problems, and after listening to my presentation, they decided now is time to get help. It’s very surprising how widespread the need for help across the state is. We are so fortunate in Minnesota to have the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program. It’s a one-of-a-kind program.

Is there anything else you want to tell firefighters about this training?

MnFIRE training is more important than you think it is. It’s important for firefighters to learn about how to better help themselves and help each other. But it’s even more important to share this information with your family and friends. Talk openly and be honest about what it means to be a firefighter, and how others can help you be a better person and live a long happy life.

Remember, it’s OK to not be OK. We all want to go home at the end of a shift or call, and these trainings will help you and your fellow firefighters do that.

Get trained for free

The Hometown Heroes Assistance Program supports annual MnFIRE training for all Minnesota firefighters, at no cost to departments. If your department has already completed our general awareness training about firefighter occupational health risks, there are several new deep-dive trainings now available. Click here to learn more and register for a training.

If you’re interested in becoming a MnFIRE training instructor like Andy, please reach out to Director of Program Delivery DeeDee Jankovich. We’re especially looking for new trainers in greater Minnesota.

Contributed by Paul J. Anderson II, M.D.

As a firefighter, anything can happen on a shift or a call. That’s why firefighters are trained to always be sharp and ready. But the beverages you consume when you aren’t on duty could impair your performance when the call comes in. Caffeine and alcohol can both have harmful effects on firefighters if not used in moderation, so it may be wise to “rethink your drink.”

Use caffeine to your advantage

We often associate caffeine with its ability to reduce sleepiness or daytime drowsiness. In reality, there are several benefits when used wisely, including improved reaction time and physical endurance. But a little can go a long way. An 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee has about 90 milligrams of caffeine and the recommended maximum daily dose is around 400 milligrams. And the effect can take time to wear off. In fact, it takes about 10 hours for caffeine to completely leave your system once consumed.

For people with normal sleep and wake cycles, caffeine use is best limited to 100 to 200 milligrams per day and restricted to the morning hours. Firefighters, who typically have irregular sleep patterns and/or sleep deprivation, may need to think differently about caffeine and reserve caffeinated beverages for when it’s most beneficial. This means consuming relatively little caffeine (or none) most of the time and then increasing caffeine consumption during periods of high need, like a busy night shift, working tired or working overtime. Rethinking caffeine may mean that using less helps you benefit more.

Enjoy alcohol in moderation

It goes without saying that heavily drinking or binge drinking alcohol is not compatible with being ready for firefighting duty. Even moderate alcohol consumption can erode sleep quality, delay reaction times and could progress to alcohol dependence over time. So as a firefighter, you may want to rethink your relationship with alcohol.

Alcohol slows down your nervous system and gives you a temporary sensation of relaxation when consumed in moderate amounts. While alcohol has long been integrated into social interactions and celebrations around the world, it can be problematic when abused. Firefighters know the realities of this, having answered calls for preventable fires where alcohol was involved, auto accidents due to drunk driving, alcohol-related domestic problems and alcohol-induced health issues.

According to the Fire Service Joint Labor Management Wellness-Fitness Initiative, alcohol is the most commonly abused substance among firefighters, and it’s unfortunately common among firefighters to help deal with the emotional trauma experienced on the job. The numbing effects of alcohol consumption are only temporary, however. Once a person is sober, any mental health issues or memories of traumatic calls are still there. These problems may even feel worse after being temporarily alleviated, which helps fuel the cycle of substance abuse.

Heavy drinking is defined as more than two standard drinks per day for men, or more than one standard drink per day for women. A standard drink is defined as a shot of liquor (1.5 ounces), a 12-ounce beer (4% ABV), or a 5-ounce glass of wine. Binge drinking (more than six drinks in a short period) is another harmful pattern of drinking to avoid.

The good news is that going alcohol-free for a period or cutting down on alcohol has never been easier. Dry months are common practice, and there has been an explosion of alcohol-free beers, wines and spirits that can make cutting back on alcohol or stopping drinking altogether much easier. Cutting back on alcohol with a group of people as a challenge can be a fun and effective challenge for team building.

While it goes without saying that no firefighter should use illegal substances, it may be beneficial to analyze your use of these more common substances. Any efforts that improve your ability to be safe and live well as a firefighter are worth the time.

Need help? MnFIRE’s got your back

If you or a firefighter loved one need help with alcohol or substance abuse, please call our 24-hour helpline at 888-784-6634. Free counseling visits, peer support and other resources are available through the MnFIRE Assistance Program. This confidential, free service is available for all active volunteer, paid-on-call, part-time and full-time Minnesota firefighters and their families, and for all levels of support.

“We had an incident where a person lost their life in a grain bin. We all knew this farmer who lost his life. Once we left the scene, I knew it had touched all of us,” explained Chief Jeff Leuer of the West Suburban Fire District, a paid on-call department of 50 firefighters covering 50 square miles including stations in Loretto and Hamel.

“When I left the scene and was driving back to the station, I called MnFIRE and I said, ‘We just had this incident. I am concerned that I am going to have some people who are going to have to deal with this. What do I do? How do I direct them?’”

Fortunately, Jeff knew that confidential help was available 24/7 for any firefighter and their family through the MnFIRE Assistance Program, which targets emotional health and stress unique to the fire service through connection to mental health counseling and peer support.

The trained MnFIRE Peer Support specialist who answered Jeff’s call reassured him: We can help. Point them our way. What Jeff didn’t realize was that it wasn’t just his firefighters who stood to benefit from the program.

“That peer supporter from MnFIRE, they said, ‘How are you doing?’ They stopped me in my tracks,” said Jeff.

That simple question helped Jeff realize his bucket of stress and trauma was practically overflowing. After being in the fire service for 25 years, he could barely take it anymore. With the peer supporter’s reassurance and the offer to talk again, they hung up.

Jeff talked about the conversation with his wife and thought maybe that was it. But the next morning, he got a call from that same peer supporter, saying, “Good morning, Jeff. How are you doing today? It’s a new day. The sun is shining.”

From that day forward for about a month straight, the peer supporter would call or text him.

“While I didn’t go get formal, professional help, that person helped bring me from the really tough place I was at,” said Jeff. “‘We’ve got to get some of this stuff out of your bucket,’ they would say. I still get emotional.”

“MnFIRE, and the peer support, it means so much to me.”

And those firefighters Jeff referred to MnFIRE? Two of them told him how glad they were that someone reached out, that they had an excellent experience. Jeff said, “Even if they don’t get formal help, they are guided in the right direction.”

This incident wasn’t the first time Jeff or his team needed some help from MnFIRE, and it won’t be the last. Two of his firefighters recently experienced cardiac events and sought help from the Critical Illness benefit. And others sought out MnFIRE Peer Support when a fellow firefighter died unexpectedly in 2021.

Jeff’s department takes mental health very seriously. And talking about it, he believes, makes it easier for people to reach out when they need it.

“I have had struggles. Still today, if something comes up, I’m not afraid to give a call and talk to someone,” Jeff said. “By firefighters hearing the chiefs say, ‘I had a problem. I needed help. I reached out and it helped.’ It makes it okay for them to give a call. It’s for firefighters, and it’s for chiefs, too.”

Confidential help is available over the phone or online, anytime for any Minnesota firefighter and their family through the MnFIRE Assistance Program. For more details or for help, call 888-784-6634 or click here.

Contributed by MnFIRE Mental Health Director Melinda Coscarelli, PhD, LPCC, LADC

As firefighters, you’re taught to always be prepared. Your department spends hours practicing and preparing for that moment when someone calls for help. But how do you answer the call from one of your own?

Mental health problems can come in all sizes, from a firefighter facing burnout to one who is having suicidal thoughts. With the mental demands and emotional toll of firefighting, fire service leaders must be prepared to offer support to their fellow firefighters when needed. After all, firefighters with more supportive cultures and departmental resources perceive their work environment as less stressful, which can lessen manifestations of mental health problems such as anxiety, substance abuse, insomnia and depression.

Here are a few things you can do to be better prepared.

Get trained

Fire service leaders should receive training on how to talk to their crew about mental health concerns. These situations are delicate and at times need to be handled differently than your typical calls. MnFIRE provides access to suicide prevention classes and emotional wellness deep-dive trainings. Because with proper education, you can identify the warning signs for emotional trauma and feel more comfortable having these conversations with your firefighters.

Build awareness and support

Making small changes now can help build a stronger foundation to stand on later. Put up posters around your department with messages and tips for managing different symptoms such as sleep deprivation or moodiness. Posters can be placed in prominent areas like the kitchen, or more discrete locations such as the restrooms. MnFIRE also offers educational materials on resources to help, which show MnFIRE’s free helpline for getting support 24/7.

While a few posters or brochures won’t change the fire service culture, having them visible and accessible can be helpful to someone suffering in silence and start building awareness for the support that’s always available to them.

Be proactive

Several departments have started doing regular check-ins with their crews. A good time for doing this is at roll call or shift changes. It can be as simple as asking your crew to rate their current mental status on a scale of one to 10, with 10 being mentally maxed out. If one of your firefighters is at a seven or higher, pull them aside and ask them what you can do to support them. A simple check-in adds accountability and shows the crew that you genuinely care.

It’s also helpful to develop a safety plan for your department so you know what process to follow to de-escalate any type of crisis situation.

Stay calm

If a mental health emergency does arise, stay calm. Ask the firefighter what you can do to support them through their difficult situation. Steer clear of offering advice, but rather listen and empathize.

Be attentive

Taking a class like MnFIRE’s emotional wellness training or the suicide prevention skills training we put on for our peer supporters can be very beneficial to learning warning signs for someone in distress. Non-verbal and verbal language both give clues about when a firefighter’s mental health may be starting to decline, or they may even become suicidal. It is best to recognize these signs before they escalate into a dangerous situation.

Call MnFIRE

If you don’t feel prepared, know that we are. The MnFIRE toll free number is staffed by masters-level clinicians all day, every day. From one-on-one calls to department debriefs, during the middle of a crisis or after a tough call, we are here for you. Don’t hesitate to use this free, confidential resource available to all full-time, part-time, on-call and volunteer firefighters in Minnesota. Just call 888-784-6634.