resources

Call or Text 988 – Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for those in need of support, including resources for first responders. For emergency situations, please call 911. Veterans can access military support resources by dialing 988 and pressing 1. Additionally, for immediate assistance, text HOME to 741741 to connect with the Crisis Text Line, which can also guide you to family assistance programs.

vHvLocal Crisis Services

• Massachussetts Behavioral Health→  Call or text: 833-773-2445 - Free, confidential support with real-time connection to services, including family assistance programs.
• Cape Cod Healthcare Behavioral Health Services → Mental health and substance use services across Cape Cod, along with military support resources for those in need.
• Duffy Health Center (Hyannis) → Mental health, recovery support, and community services, providing valuable resources for first responders and their families.
• Gosnold Behavioral Health → Counseling, inpatient/outpatient care, and recovery services tailored to support various community needs.
• Bay Cove Behavioral Health (Hyannis) → Crisis intervention, mental health services, and community-based support, ensuring access to essential resources for all.
• Lion Heart Behavioral Health →. offers mental health and substance use treatment services, focusing on personalized care, recovery support, and long-term wellness.
• Haven Health Management →. provides personalized mental health and substance use support, focusing on care coordination, recovery planning, and long-term wellness.

• Massachusetts Firefighter Mental Health→ Confidential behavioral health support specifically for firefighters, along with family assistance programs that address their unique needs. 
• Code Green Campaign → A national advocacy initiative providing resources tailored for first responders, including military support resources to help those transitioning from service. 
• National Volunteer Fire Council Share the Load Program → Offers tools, a helpline, and training resources designed for firefighters. 
• Local CISM Teams (Critical Incident Stress Management) → The Cape & Islands CISM teams are available for departments after critical incidents, ensuring that first responders have access to the support they need.

• VA Boston Healthcare System → Comprehensive mental health and specialty care, including essential family assistance programs. 
• Cape Cod Vet Center  → Confidential counseling for veterans and their families in a non-VA hospital setting, offering access to vital military support resources. 
• Home Base Program → World-class care for veterans and families dealing with PTSD and TBI, ensuring they have the necessary resources for first responders. 
• Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services → Coordination of benefits, housing, and mental health support, connecting veterans and families to various resources.

• NAMI Massachusetts → Family assistance programs, education, and advocacy. 
• Cape Cod Children's Place → Family support, parenting education, and early childhood programs, including resources for first responders.

Withdrawal from family or team can be a sign that someone may benefit from family assistance programs. Irritability or anger, along with sleep changes, are also common indicators. Increased substance use and a loss of purpose may arise, and individuals might start talking about feeling like a burden. If you are a first responder or part of the military, there are military support resources available for you. If something feels off—trust your instincts.

"You haven’t seemed like yourself lately, and I just want you to know that there are family assistance programs available if you need support."

"I’m here for you—no pressure, but remember you can also explore military support resources for additional help."

"You don’t have to carry this alone; there are resources for first responders that can really make a difference."

Listening can save a life.