#18: It Takes a Toll on You
We’re not speaking from experience, but we can only imagine the emotional toll it takes to be a 911 operator. The horror stories they must hear and the urgency of the job are what led the state of Arizona to take a significant step in prioritizing the mental health of its 911 operators. By signing a bill into law that grants them unlimited access to mental health services, they are recognizing the emotional toll of handling emergency calls.
This legislation aims to provide essential support to the unsung heroes who manage high-stress situations daily. These operators often bear the weight of distressing incidents, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Hopefully, more countries and states will be inspired by this compassionate move in the future.