First Responders put their own lives on the line to ensure our safety. The least we can do is make sure they have tools to protect and serve their communities
Resources
Friends of First Responders Hawaiʻi Island plays a critical role in supporting the mental health and well-being of our first responders by providing essential mental health resources and training. First responders face intense stress, trauma, and high-pressure situations on a daily basis, which can lead to burnout, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Offering mental health resources, such as counseling, workshops, and peer support programs, ensures that they have the tools to process the emotional toll of their work.
In addition to mental health support, Friends of First Responders Hawaiʻi Island also provides training resources that help first responders improve their skills while learning how to manage stress and trauma. These programs not only enhance their ability to serve the community but also equip them with techniques to protect their own mental health. By providing these resources, the organization helps ensure that first responders remain healthy and resilient, allowing them to continue their vital work in keeping our communities safe.
Call 911 if you are in an emergency crisis:
Immediate threat
If someone is a threat to themselves or others, call 911 immediately. This includes if they are violent, threatening violence, or suicidal. You can request a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) officer if one is available.
Mental health crisis
If someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call 988, the national mental health crisis call center. You can also text "NAMI" to 988 to connect with a trained counselor.
Other emergencies
You should call 911 for any serious medical problem, fire, life-threatening situation, or to report a crime in progress. If you're not sure if a situation is an emergency, it's better to call 911.
When you call 911, you should: Stay calm, Provide your location, Describe the situation clearly, Follow the dispatcher's instructions, and Answer all the questions asked by the dispatcher.
CRISIS SUPPORT
CRISIS TEXT LINE
TEXT ALOHA TO 741-741
NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE
800-273-TALK (8255)
COPLINE
800-COPLINE (267-5463)
FIRE/EMS HELPLINE
888-731-FIRE (3473)
SAFE CALL NOW
206-459-3020
Trained peer advocates provide assistance, resources, and support for any public safety or medical personnel, and their families, who are experiencing a crisis, or need someone to lend them an ear.
HAWAII ISLAND
STATE RESOURCES:
Dr. Alicia C. Rodriguez, Psy D.
Specializes in working with First Responders
wavesofinsight.com
808-818-8850
The CORDICO app
https://cordico.com/industries/
Wellness app for Law Enforcement, Fire & EMS, Dispatch Corrections, Probation & Parole and other high stress occupations.
CHAPLAIN SUPPORT
Hawaii County Police & Fire Chaplain
Renee Godoy 808-896-6670
