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FRONT LINE WELLNESS

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Front Line Wellness

 

Frontline workers face many challenges in their day-to-day work lfe.  From the pressure of making sure people get the help and care they need to working long shifts - health care and public safety are stressful fields of work.

 

When you encounter chronic stress, trauma, and the negative effects of shiftwork as a part of your daily work life, an added source of stress like COVID-19 can feel overwhelming.  With concerns about passing the virus to family and friends, protective equipment shortages, exposure to financial pressures and long hours - you need support now more than ever.

 

For many frontline workers, the pandemic has taken a toll on their mental wellness.  And if you are struggling, you are not alone.

 

NAMI is here to help.

 

We have joined the #FirstResponderFirst initiative to support frontline heatlh care and public safety workers facing the adverse mental health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.  This community-centered initiative is called NAMI Frontline Wellness.

 

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Health Care Workers

As a frontline health care worker, you experience stress daily.  Your job places unique demands on you that are not typical for most, and it can add up over time.  The COVID-19 pandemic has created additional stressors that may feel overwhelming.  Learn more.

 

Public Safety Workers 

Let's face it: first responders often deal with the unimaginable.  Maybe it's one specific call, maybe it's a series of them.  The COVID-19 pandemic has added to an already difficult and frequently dangerous job.  The effects of stress are real and should not be ignored.  Learn more.

 

Suicide Prevention

If you are in a crisis, there are resources you can turn to:

  • Maryland's Statewide Information and Referral (for emergency mental health services): 211 press 1 or text zip code to 898-211.
  • Listings by County.
  • Crisis Text Line - Text "NAMI" to 741741.
  • Go to a safe place and dial 911 to ask for immediate assistance if the situation is life-threatening or if serious property damage is occurring.

Stories from Peers

It can be difficult to share your story, but it's important.  It reminds everyone that we are all in this together.  If you are a frontline worker and would like to support your peers by telling your story and offering encouragement, post your own video on social media and tag @NAMICommunicate with the hashtags #NotAlone and #FirstRespondersFirst.  Learn more.

 

Webinar Series and Additional Resources

NAMI Maryland is developing and disseminate free webinars and fact sheets for a wide range of audiences. During these difficult times,  these resources have been critical as a means of education and support for individuals living with mental illness, their family members, and providers who are trying to navigate the dual pandemic.  Learn more.

 

Other Resources: