The Code 9 Project Offers Support for First Responders

The Code 9 Project Offers Support for First Responders

First responders are on the front lines of the fight against the coronavirus pandemic and they have had to deal with the fear of exposure to COVID-19 in the course of doing their job which can be challenging and stressful. We had the honor of speaking recently with Brandielee Baker, president and co-founder of The Code 9 Project to learn about the support and resources that are 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.

How can The Code 9 Project help first responders especially during the coronavirus pandemic?

The Code 9 Project Facebook and Instagram pages offer positive peer to peer tips, motivation and encouragement.

Send us an email or a social media message and we will connect you with a chaplain or peer support counselor.

The Code 9 Project has 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 has a specific album of meditations for first responders. 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: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Brandielee+Baker&i=digital-music&search-type=ss&ref=ntt_srch_drd_B07HB84LVN

As we see the overall health of the coronavirus pandemic on our first responders being impacted, what are some tips on how they can minimize burnout and stress?

A small breathing practice of 1 to 5 minutes a day goes a long way. Movement is important. At least 20 to 30 minutes such as a walk, jog, or some form of physical movement is key in expelling the stress toxins from the body. Nothing too rigorous is needed just a light sweat will do wonders.

Taking time to step away from all the reminders, conversations and connections to work and what’s happening in the world. Unplugging for a bare minimum of 20 minutes a day is key to reset and resiliency.

Connections and social network of people not in the first responder career is also important for balance and the ability to “step away” and recharge.

How can people get involved with The Code 9 Project?

Sharing our social media posts and spreading awareness about our organization is a simple, yet powerful way to help us. Fundraising is always appreciated. You can contact us at our website and via social media.

For more information on The Code 9 Project, visit: https://thecode9project.org and follow @code9project on Facebook and @thecode9project on Instagram.