The holiday season in the United States is accompanied by a surge in calls to first responders due to factors such as increased alcohol consumption, accidents related to winter weather, kitchen fires, electrical fires, and domestic disputes along with seasonal anxiety and stress. The latter (anxiety and stress) also affects the first responders we depend on, even more so, because in addition to dealing with the same seasonal issues as the general population, they are tasked with the responsibility of protecting us. And during their duties they are repeatedly exposed to traumatic events, which significantly increases their risk of developing mental health issues like PTSD. It is therefore mission critical for firefighters, paramedics, emergency medical personnel, police officers, and 911 dispatchers, along with search & rescue workers to seek or increase engagement with counseling services that specialize in addressing the unique challenges to their mental wellbeing. While each branch of public service provisions access to counseling, the demand generally outpaces supply. Further, individuals may have concerns about confidentiality when discussing their mental and behavioral health concerns. To account for this, Kindbridge has launched a First Responder Helpline that is available 24/7 throughout the 2025 holiday season and beyond.
Are you a first responder? Tap here to book a virtual counseling session or call now for immediate help:
24/7 First Responder Support Online / By Phone
As a first responder, you don’t follow the same schedules as the general public and are on call through the holidays. You need access to counseling that is available around the clock, from wherever you may be (home, firehall, et cetera). Through Kindbridge, first responder support is available by-phone and online. After your initial phone assessment you have the option to continue with ongoing sessions through the holidays by phone and/or online over your preferred virtual platform (FaceTime, Zoom, etc.).
Specialized Mental Health Support Strategies
Our clinical team is comprised of specialists in mental health issues in addition to unhealthy coping mechanisms that are common to first responders. You receive immediate access to condition-specific treatment. Helpline clinicians specialize in virtual treatment of the following:
| Anxiety Disorders | Chronic Anger |
| Chronic Stress | Depression |
| Post Traumatic Stress Disorder | Problem Gambling + Unhealthy Gaming |
| Problematic Use of Pornography | Problematic Sexual Behavior |
| Social Phobia | Suicidal Ideation |
Treatment That Works
Kindbridge success rates are higher than the standard because of our specialization in treating mental and behavioral health struggles that are specific to first responders. Our platform provides greater effectiveness and expedited healing for whatever is ailing you. This can help you not just get through the holidays, but actually enjoy the time with family, friends, and fellow personnel. View outcome reports for insight into the power of our treatment strategies:
| ANXIETY TREATMENT OUTCOMES REPORT |
| DEPRESSION TREATMENT OUTCOMES REPORT |
| STRESS TREATMENT OUTCOMES REPORT |
Mental Health Help for Your Family
Your loved ones also struggle with their feelings and emotions through Christmas and the holiday season. Partners, spouses, children, and elder parents experience stress and anxiety about your safety and the fact that you may not be able to spend quality time with them during this time of the year. In addition to one-on-one counseling, Kindbridge offers the following:
| Couples Counseling | Family Counseling |
First Responder Help Covered by Insurance
Kindbridge has partnered with leading U.S. insurance providers to offer first responders access to full coverage, partial coverage, and/or direct billing (contingent upon your policy). If you’re unsure if you’re covered, connect to a Kindbridge care coordinator who will help determine your level of coverage.
The Kindbridge First Responder Holiday Helpline is Open
CALL +1 (877) 426-4258
OR
Email help@kindbridge.com
