Mental health resources in Florida announced for first responders

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Updated  October 28, 2024 11:14am EDT
FOX 13 News
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TAMPA, Fla. - On National First Responders Day, Florida’s first responders struggling with mental health challenges received additional access to resources.

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody announced in an Oct. 28 press conference that Florida’s First Responder Hope Line is expanding to all 67 counties. 

First responders looking to take advantage of the First Responder Hope Line can call 1-866-4FL-HERO or visit their website here. 

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Moody described first responders as the "backbone" of the community and said, "It's important that our first responders across the state now know that this is available."

The Tampa Bay Crisis Center launched the First Responder’s Hope Line in 2019 to give first responders an outlet for expressing their mental health challenges without resorting to dangerous measures.

The helpline first served six counties in the Bay Area before expanding to 11 counties and is now available statewide. 

Florida AG Ashley Moody announces new mental-health resources for first responders.

The Bay Area has "served as a model" for statewide expansion," said Moody.

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According to officials, the resource line has processed over 400 calls since its launch, and more than 74,000 people have visited the website.

First responders experience higher rates of suicide, PTSD, and mental health challenges than the public, according to Moody. She also says the First Responder’s Resource Line will help break generational stigmas surrounding first responders asking for help. 

According to Moody, Florida has "lost 81 first responders to suicide," with 12 happening this year alone. 

Florida State Senator Jay Collins, Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister, Crisis Center of Tampa Bay President & CEO Clara Reynolds, and Local First Responders joined Moody and spoke.

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