County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher Monday proposed a free program to offer behavioral health support to first responders.
The Fire Captain Ryan J. Mitchell First Responder Behavioral Health Support Program would offer confidential support by connecting first responders to a clinical professional. Officials plan to offer links via a dedicated phone line, website or smartphone app.
The program would be open to first responders in any jurisdiction or branch of public safety.
Fletcher proposed the program after speaking with firefighters and law enforcement around the county earlier this year. According to Fletcher’s office, he named the program after Cal Fire Capt. Ryan Mitchell, who took his own life in 2017.
Fletcher announced the program during a news conference with officials from Cal Fire Local 2881, the San Diego County Deputy Sheriff’s Association and other first responders.
“Preventing suicide by increasing awareness, combating stigma and improving access to the mental health system are all vital steps to improve wellness of the community,” he said “and specifically first responders, with this new program.”
The county Board of Supervisors is expected to vote on Fletcher’s proposal during its regular Tuesday meeting.
– City News Service
