A partnership between American Addiction Centers and the National Volunteer Fire Council provides fire fighters and their families with immediate access to support for mental and behavioral health issues
BRENTWOOD, Tenn. – American Addiction Centers has partnered with the National Volunteer Fire Council to offer a confidential helpline for fire fighters and their families in need of support for behavioral health issues, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, officials announced today.
The helpline will offer immediate, 24/7 access to a treatment consultant who has experience with the unique challenges first responders face. By calling, fire fighters and their families may receive a free, over-the-phone assessment and – if desired – expedited referrals, insurance verification and admission to treatment.
Michael Blackburn, the Senior Vice President for Business Development at American Addiction Centers, assists with the helpline initiative. Blackburn is a veteran fire fighter and certified employee assistance program professional with years of experience in workplace and family interventions.
“My experience as a fire fighter has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the remarkable courage that first responders demonstrate in the line of duty,” Blackburn said. “I am pleased to seize the opportunity to give back to my fellow first responders by supporting them and their families in times of personal crisis, ultimately helping them return to their careers and reclaim their lives.”
Research suggests that the scope of behavioral health problems among emergency responders may be broader than once thought. Traumatic experiences are part of this troubling trend; studies have found that as many as 37 percent of fire fighters exhibit symptoms of PTSD at some point during their careers. But routine stressors unique to firefighting, such as long shifts and potentially dangerous working conditions, play a significant role as well.
“With these dramatic statistics, it is imperative that our communities recognize these fire fighters and the struggles they face on a daily basis,” said Blackburn. “Together, we can support our hometown heroes.”
To access the First Responders Helpline, please call: 1-855-997-6542.
About American Addiction Centers
American Addiction Centers is a leading provider of inpatient substance abuse treatment services. We treat adults as well as adolescents who are struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction, and co-occurring mental/behavioral health issues. We operate 12 substance abuse treatment facilities and one mental health facility specializing in binge eating disorders. Located throughout the United States, these facilities are focused on delivering effective clinical care and treatment solutions. For more information, please find us at AmericanAddictionCenters.com or follow us on Twitter @AAC_Tweet.