Fire chief shares mental health resources for first responders

RUSSELLVILLE, Ky. – It’s something that affects many people around the world, and first responders aren’t immune either. During Mental Health Awareness Month, one local fire chief is shedding light on resources that could help those who see some of the most serious situations.

News 40 spoke to Cheryl Allen, the chief of the Rural Russellville and Logan Aluminum Fire Departments, who told us that mental health can be a real concern among our heroes.

Allen said she, just like many other emergency response personnel, had a few rough situations she’s answered to before.

“Images come back to you at the most random times, I have a few scenes that happened years ago that I can remember very vividly,” Allen said.

When asked about resources, Allen said in Logan County, they have something called the Burden Bearers. The Burden Bearers are the name of a local chaplain group who provide support to emergency services but also, your organization will have some career-wide resources.

Allen said both as a volunteer or paid firefighter, you fight the same fires and respond to the same wrecks just like anyone else. The chief said the Kentucky Fire Commission makes licensed mental health professionals for those who feel they might need more direct interaction when dealing with a traumatic situation.