Wellness & peer support.

Sometimes it feels like there isn't enough support for 911 operators and dispatchers. Just because we're in a room and not on scene doesn't mean we aren't affected by the situations that come across our screens.

Too often, I'm standing at one of my call-takers' desks, checking on them and telling them to take a break because of the call they just handled. We're just as susceptible to PTSD as those who physically respond to a scene, while we work long hours during long weeks and are asked to do more with less.

Many departments have peer support and/or wellness programs for their employees. The department I work for has a support team staffed with our own dispatchers and operators who have received peer support training. They've put together events for employees, such as equine therapy, with more planned in the future.

The links listed below are for 911 operators and dispatchers. Some of these are hotlines with a person on the other end. Some are communities built specifically for dispatchers. Some are self-guided tools you can use privately before deciding whether to talk to anyone. None of them replace your department's EAP or a licensed therapist. They're a place to start if you need help and your department doesn't have a support system in place.