Supporting the Mental Health of New Hampshire’s First Responders
October 10th is World Mental Health Day
Caring for the people who respond to emergencies is a year-round responsibility. First responders face demanding situations, repeated exposure to trauma and pressures that can follow them home. Recognizing these challenges—and making support accessible—should be part of how we care for the people who serve our communities. Federal resources, including SAMHSA’s training for law enforcement, recognize the need to address the behavioural health stresses associated with this work.
In New Hampshire, that support includes opportunities to connect with people who understand the demands of the job.
Responders Together NH: Connection and Support
Responders Together NH, working with the Lakes Region Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Peer Teams, provides peer support, training and wellness programs for first responders, military members, veterans and their families across the Lakes Region and northern New Hampshire.
The organization serves active and retired personnel, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS professionals, dispatchers and corrections officers. Its programs are offered at no cost to participants or departments.
Activities include:
Peer-developed, app-based workouts.
Open gym, group exercise and yoga at Kilter Fitness in Bristol.
Peers-only mixed martial arts at Lakes Region Vale Tudo in Laconia.
“Reboot” peer support meetings.
Family game nights and seasonal hikes.
Group and individual CISM peer support and mental health training.
Programs are facilitated by trained peers and family members, with oversight from a volunteer licensed clinician. Visit the organization’s website for current schedules and participation details.
Making Support Part of Everyday Life
Support should be easy to find before someone reaches a breaking point. A conversation, a shared activity or a welcoming place to connect can offer a starting point for someone who feels isolated or unsure where to turn.
Families belong in that conversation, too. Including partners and family members recognizes that the demands of service affect life beyond the workplace.
Departments and community organizations can help by regularly sharing available resources, making time for conversations about well-being and treating requests for support with respect. Peer programs can be part of that support network, alongside professional mental health care when needed.
The people who answer our calls for help deserve communities that show up for them. Making mental health support visible, welcoming and accessible is one way to do that throughout the year.
Learn more: Responders Together NH.