A new resiliency training program developed to help prevent post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in first responders will begin rolling out to fire stations and EMS agencies in New York and Texas in 2026.
The initiative, led by Stony Brook Medicine, is supported by a 5-year, $3.3 million grant from the National Institute of Mental Health that runs through June 2030. The program aims to equip responders with practical tools to manage stress, build resilience and reduce the risk of PTSD following traumatic calls.
What the training involves
Researchers will study the Worker Resilience Training program, a 4-hour, hands-on workshop that covers how traumatic exposure affects responder health and how to recognize early signs of PTSD. The sessions also focus on building everyday habits — such as stress-management techniques and healthier lifestyle routines — that can help responders recover more effectively after calls.
The clinical trial will be led by Adam Gonzalez of Stony Brook Medicine and Anka Vujanovic of Texas A&M University. Data coordination will be handled by Rebecca Schwartz at Northwell Health.
“First responders risk their lives every day to protect our communities,” Gonzalez said. “We are honored to have the opportunity to support their physical and mental health.”
Why it matters
A previous trial involving 167 responders found the training helped reduce symptoms of PTSD and depression over 3 months. Participants also reported improvements in stress management and physical activity — two areas researchers say can play a key role in long-term resilience.
The upcoming study will enroll about 800 EMS providers and firefighters from Long Island, Westchester and Rockland counties, along with responders in the Houston region. Recruitment is expected to begin in spring 2026.
If the expanded trial shows similar results, researchers say the program could become a model for agencies nationwide looking to strengthen mental health support before PTSD symptoms emerge.
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