The coronavirus pandemic is taking a heavy toll on us, especially with first responders. First responders including nurses, EMTs, paramedics, firefighters and police are on the front lines of the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Recently, we had the pleasure of speaking with Brandielee Baker, president and co-founder of The Code 9 Project and learn about the support and resources available for first responders and frontline workers and their families during the coronavirus pandemic. The Code 9 Project is a national nonprofit organization that provides education and training for First Responders, Veterans and their families for the prevention of PTSD and suicide.
As first responders are on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic, how can The Code 9 Project help first responders?
Reach out via email or via social media and we will connect you with a chaplain or peer support counselor.
We have online peer support group meetings weekly for frontline workers and first responders Tuesday and Friday at 9am PST and 9pm PST on Zoom.
The Code 9 Project has a team of chaplains, peer support, critical incident trainers and a specialized trauma debriefing team for individuals, police and fire departments, first responders, frontline workers and hospital staff.
The Code 9 Project has a national helpline that is 24/7 for all frontline workers and first responders. The Code 9 Project national helpline number is 844-HOPE-247.
The Code 9 Project released the first ever, first responder specific album of meditations. They are short, basic guided meditations to introduce first responders into building a meditation practice. These meditations are also user friendly for non first responders suffering with extreme stress.
The Code 9 Project First Responder Meditations are available at Apple Music, Google Play and at Amazon.
As first responders are taking care of us in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, how can we help take care of them? Any tips?
Provide information on available resources. Listen when they want to talk. Avoid saying you understand or trying to relate your own personal experiences to them. Just listen and support them with a quiet safe place to be heard. Do not force any help or advice on a first responder. Offer don’t impose.
Loud noise and the news can be very overwhelming at this time. Be mindful of noise levels and excessive focus on discussions about the coronavirus pandemic. Allow them the space and place to leave work behind and recharge and recreate.
Are there other things that The Code 9 Project provides for first responders?
The Code 9 Project has community events and has department advisement for building wellness and resiliency programs.
For more information on The Code 9 Project, click here and follow on Facebook and Instagram.
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