Aug. 8, 2024 Update: Expanded Mental Health Resources for Federal Wildland Fire Personnel

We all know that wildland firefighting is a tough and physically dangerous job. But what often doesn’t get talked about enough is the mental toll it takes. Evidence suggests many wildland fire personnel face higher risks of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress and even suicide. The key to reducing these risks is prevention, early intervention and building long-term resiliency.  

Recognizing this, we’ve worked to build a program that meets the unique needs of wildland firefighters by hiring key staff and hosting a planning summit. We’ve created the Joint Wildland Firefighter Health and Wellbeing program with the U.S. Department of the Interior to offer expanded health and well-being resources and support. Now we’ve partnered with the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service to enhance our efforts.

The Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service is one of the nation’s eight uniformed services and the only one dedicated solely to protecting America’s public health. Public health service officers serve in agencies across the government to fight disease, conduct research, care for patients and stand ready to preserve the health and safety of our nation during national or global health emergencies.

Trained behavioral health officers from this uniformed service branch that have experience performing jobs in other parts of the government are now being assigned to the Agriculture and Interior departments. They will work at the geographic area level to support prevention education programs and provide resources to help mitigate the impacts of traumatic events with focus on awareness and early intervention for wildland firefighters, dispatchers and first responders working on the ground. They will improve stress management and resilience through increased education, connect wildland firefighters with behavioral health resources and services, and advise local units on supporting health and well-being.

Their presence marks a significant step forward in our mission to support firefighter mental health and will be in addition to existing services like critical incident stress management and the casualty assistance program that already support the wildland fire community. More information about how to connect with behavioral health officers and use this new program will be available soon.

At an April 2023 planning summit, we heard loud and clear from fire personnel and mental health experts alike that a holistic approach is needed to better support the health and well-being of firefighters. Because the job involves significant occupational hazards, from exposure to chemical and biological hazards to the physical demands of firefighting, we need to be sure our support is comprehensive. Addressing these risks by focusing on both immediate and long-term health impacts will ensure we are doing everything we can to support employees.

This program is a result of congressional direction from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which identified the need for a comprehensive approach to both mental and physical health in the profession. It is also aligned with recommendations from the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission. We are committed to implementing these recommendations and continually improving.

Together, with the Department of the Interior, we are dedicated to expanding our health and well-being support, creating an evidence-based program that respects privacy, confidentiality and values your feedback. Thank you for your relentless dedication and service. As we continue to prioritize your health and wellbeing, we will provide additional updates.

Editorial Note: To read John Crockett’s message explaining the Federal Firefighter Health and Wellbeing Program, see the Chief’s Desk Column.