COLORADO — September marks Suicide Awareness Month, a critical time to reflect on the impact of mental health on both individuals and organizations. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, but the unique demands and stressors faced by Forest Service employees, particularly those in isolated fieldwork positions, present significant risks that must be addressed with care and urgency.

Forest Service employees often work in remote locations, far from the support networks and resources typically available in urban settings. The isolation inherent in fieldwork can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression, particularly during long stretches away from family and friends. The physical and emotional demands of the job, coupled with potential exposure to traumatic events, further increase the risk of mental health issues such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.

Employees in roles such as fire, law enforcement, dispatch and red card personnel face a higher exposure to traumatic stress than the general population. This exposure can lead to significant mental health challenges, including an elevated risk of suicide. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is essential for the well-being of our workforce and the effectiveness of our mission.

The impact of mental health challenges extends beyond the individual, influencing the well-being of the entire team. According to a Gallup poll, nearly one-fifth of U.S. workers rate their mental health as fair or poor, leading to an estimated 12 days of unplanned absences annually. For the Forest Service, where every team member plays a critical role, these absences can have a significant impact on operations.

The cost of these absences is not just financial. The well-being of our employees is paramount, and fostering a supportive environment is essential to building a resilient workforce. Programs such as Stress First Aid are designed to enhance both individual and organizational resilience, serving as protective factors against the risk of suicide and other mental health challenges.

Addressing mental health issues within the Forest Service requires a community approach that involves leadership, peers and support services. Encouraging open conversations about mental health, reducing stigma and promoting the use of available resources are key steps in creating a supportive environment.

The Employee Assistance Program is a valuable resource for Forest Service employees, offering confidential short-term counseling, referrals to specialized care, and access to a wealth of information on health and wellness topics. Employees can access EAP services up to six months post-employment, ensuring continued support even during transitions.

It is crucial for employees to recognize when they need help and to feel empowered to seek it. Whether through the EAP, tele-behavioral health options or community support, resources are available to help manage mental health challenges effectively. For those facing thoughts of suicide, immediate help is available through the National Crisis Hotline at 988 or by contacting emergency services in urgent situations.

Mental health is a shared responsibility. Together, we can create a culture that supports the well-being of every Forest Service employee. By leveraging available resources, fostering resilience and building a strong community network, we can mitigate the impact of mental health challenges on both individuals and the organization as a whole.

September events
As part of Suicide Awareness Month, the Forest Service hosted several events throughout September aimed at promoting mental health awareness and providing practical tools for managing stress and building resilience. The recordings for these events are available to employees via the Forest Service SharePoint site:

• Sept. 3: Suicide Awareness & Understanding – Employee Version – A session focused on recognizing the signs of suicide risk and how to provide support.

• Sept. 10: Stress First Aid Training – Learn strategies to manage stress effectively and build resilience in the face of job demands.

• Sept. 17 & 24 (upcoming): Suicide Awareness & Prevention: What Managers Need to Know (Parts 1 & 2) – A two-part series designed to equip managers with the knowledge and tools to support their teams' mental health.

We encourage all employees to participate in these events, take advantage of the available resources and engage in ongoing conversations about mental health. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our colleagues and create a healthier, more resilient Forest Service community.