Police officers. Firefighters. Paramedics. Dispatchers. These are the people who run toward the chaos, who carry others out of burning homes, hold hands in moments of crisis, and witness tragedies that never make the news.
But behind the uniforms are human hearts, and many are silently struggling.
First responders are at a significantly higher risk for suicide than the general population. And yet, their pain is often hidden behind duty, responsibility, and silence. At Aster Trauma Scene Cleaning, we work closely with the aftermath of trauma and have seen firsthand the toll this calling can take.
This blog is written in honor of our first responders, and as a call to support them with the same urgency they show for us.
The Alarming Truth: Higher Risk, Hidden Pain
According to the Ruderman Family Foundation, more first responders die by suicide each year than in the line of duty. That includes:
- Firefighters
- Police officers
- EMTs and paramedics
- Dispatchers
This silent epidemic is driven by a combination of repeated trauma exposure, long shifts, disrupted sleep, and the emotional burden of witnessing life-and-death moments regularly.
“Post-traumatic stress and depression rates among first responders are nearly five times higher than in the general population.” (Source: SAMHSA)
What Makes the Job So Heavy?
First responders face a unique mix of stressors that increase suicide risk:
- Repeated exposure to traumatic events
- Limited access to mental health resources
- Stigma around asking for help
- Pressure to appear emotionally “tough”
- Lack of time or space to process grief
- Moral injury—when someone feels they couldn’t do enough, even if the situation was beyond their control
In many ways, the very traits that make a great responder: selflessness, composure, responsibility, can also make it harder to ask for help.
What Can Be Done: Real Ways to Support First Responders
We all have a role to play in supporting the people who support us. Here’s how:
1. Normalize Mental Health Care in the Field
Departments can foster a culture that encourages counseling, peer support, and check-ins, not as a weakness, but as a sign of strength and longevity in service. Many departments have already started taking a proactive approach to mental health.
2. Offer Peer Support Programs
Many first responders prefer talking to someone who’s walked in their boots. Peer-based programs like Colorado Crisis Services and local responder-led wellness initiatives create safe spaces for sharing and healing.
3. Provide Trauma-Informed Decontamination and Cleanup
We partner with departments to handle traumatic scenes quickly, respectfully, and thoroughly so responders aren’t left to clean up what they were called to respond to. No one in uniform should have to carry that burden home.
4. Check In Often and Authentically
Whether you’re a colleague, a family member, or a community member: ask how they’re doing. Mean it. And be willing to listen without judgment.
If You Are a First Responder Struggling
Please know: you are not alone, and there is help that truly understands your world.
- 📞 ResponderSafe Line (24/7 Peer Support): 1-833-525-5672
- 🧠 Code Green Campaign: https://codegreencampaign.org
- 📍 Colorado Crisis Services: coloradocrisisservices.org or call 1-844-493-TALK (8255)
Standing With Those Who Stand for Us
At Aster Trauma Scene Cleaning, we are deeply committed to honoring the service and sacrifice of first responders in our Colorado communities. Whether we’re cleaning a station, a vehicle, or a scene, we serve with reverence and confidentiality.
If you’re a department in need of biohazard cleanup, decontamination, or discreet trauma remediation, call us at 720.341.3296 or learn more about our process on our Trauma Scene Cleaning Services page.
We are here for you, because you are always there for us.