Expanded supportive network established in Texas for addressing the mental health needs of emergency responders

In an effort to address the mental health concerns of first responders, Texas is set to launch a peer support network for firefighters, emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, and law enforcement officers. The initiative, one of hundreds of new laws passed by the Texas Legislature, takes effect on September 1.

The idea for the network was spearheaded by Rep. Senfronia Thompson, who successfully pushed House Bill 35 to the governor's desk during Texas' 89th Legislative Session. The network is designed to easily connect state first responders with quick support when they need it, similar to the Lone Star Readiness app.

The peer support network for first responders is modeled on an existing law enforcement program that has been credited with dramatically reducing police suicides in Texas. The success of this program led to a drop in suicide deaths among police in Texas in 2024, the network's first full year of operation.

According to a study, among U.S. firefighters, 46.8% reported suicidal ideation. EMS workers are roughly 1.39 times more likely to die by suicide than the general public, and firefighters die by suicide at a rate of 18 per 100,000, slightly higher than the 17 per 100,000 rate for law enforcement officers.

Anonymity is considered one of the most important elements of the system. Participants can request a peer for support without fear of judgment or repercussions. Rep. Thompson stated that the state is filling in the gap for these first responders until the official launch of the network next spring.

Currently, Texas is allowing first responders involved in July's floods to access the law enforcement peer support network for immediate help. The floods that occurred in Texas Hill Country on July 4 were witnessed by law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS personnel.

Sean Hanna, the vice president of Veterans and Public Safety for the Texas-based Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, has worked with similar programs and helped build, implement, and operate Texas' military peer network system. He will likely play a key role in the implementation of the first responder network initiative in Texas in September.

The Texas Division of Emergency Management will have the first responder peer support network up and running by March 2026. With this initiative, Texas has the opportunity to lead the nation in first responder well-being. Now, Texas lawmakers are being encouraged to help first responders with the new peer support network. If a response takes more than an hour, participants will be directed to a national version of the peer network program.

As the first responder community continues to grapple with the high rates of suicide, this peer support network offers a beacon of hope. By providing a safe space for first responders to share their experiences and seek help, Texas is taking a significant step towards improving the mental health of its first responders.

Expanded supportive network established in Texas for addressing the mental health needs of emergency responders