BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

Wellness is defined as a balance between the various fitness modalities - medical, physical, emotional and behavioral - and sometimes requires intervention and rehabilitation. Investing in the individual -- the fire service's greatest resource -- is an investment in the capability to provide high-quality service to communities while enhancing the quality of life of the individuals who serve. The behavioral health component can only be effective if it is used by both the department and the individual. The most successful programs have proven to be a cooperative effort between labor, management and the individual.

In order to maintain a high level of job performance, uniformed personnel must be able to cope effectively and balance the emotional, physical and mental stresses of work and personal life. If the ability to cope becomes compromised, these stresses may act to unbalance his or her mental and emotional health.  A truly comprehensive wellness program must provide continual information, education, support, access to resources and a support network.

The elements necessary for a successful and comprehensive behavioral health program are highlighted in the 3rd Edition of the Fire Service Joint Labor Management Wellness-Fitness Initiative. 

Click here to view the IAFF Online Behavioral Wellness Manual.

This section contains an overview of the various behavioral health components implemented by all of the participating departments.

To view individual components that can be exported to an Excel spreadsheet, click the links below:

• EAP Program

• Stress Management

To view the components by department, click on the links below:

Austin, TX

Calgary, AB
Charlotte, NC
Fairfax CO., VA

Indianapolis, IN
Los Angeles Co., CA
Metropolitan Dade County, FL

New York City, NY
Phoenix, AZ
Seattle, WA

NON-TASK FORCE CITIES


Beckley, WV
Carrollton, TX
Council Bluffs, IA
Lewiston, ME
Mesa, AZ
Narragansett, RI
Orange County Fire Authority, CA
Portland Fire & Rescue, OR
Port Moody, BC
Prince George's Co., MD
San Diego, CA
Snohomish County Fire District 1, WA
Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, OR