Behavioral Health 

Most people are aware of the physical demands that first response activities place on emergency personnel. However, it is also important to realize how responding to emergencies impacts their mental well-being. First responders face the risk of many behavioral health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, burnout, post-traumatic stress injury, and addiction, many times over that of the general population.

These behavioral health concerns, if left unchecked, can lead to problematic issues during an emergency response.  Bad decision-making, lack of focus, and difficulty problem-solving are just a few of the potential rippling effects of a poor mental state. Having a holistically healthy and engaged workforce creates successful, high-performing agencies. Addressing behavioral health concerns proactively to prevent long-term consequences and provide ongoing support to First Responders is vital. 

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MFFCIP supports Missouri's first responders' mental and emotional well-being. Program benefits include resources, best practice guidance for emergency response agencies and peer support teams, and a network of trained peers and culturally competent clinicians ready to assist.

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Financial resources are available to member peer support teams and clinicians, as well as to assist individual members with out-of-pocket costs associated with completing residential/inpatient treatment. All Grant awards are subject to the availability of funds. Grant applications meeting specific requirements will be considered for the following:

• Peer Support Team Grants

• Clinician Grants

• Residential-Inpatient Treatment Grants

 

The criteria for each grant are further explained in the MFFCIP Behavioral Health Program Document below.

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