Establishes toll free helpline for first responders, health care workers, and other frontline workers experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder.
The helpline, managed by the New Jersey Department of Health in collaboration with Rutgers University, will be available 24/7 to respond to calls from affected personnel and their families. This initiative is crucial in addressing the heightened psychological stress these workers have faced, ensuring they have access to necessary peer support and professional counseling services, which are designed to manage the unique emotional strains of their duties.
Assembly Bill A767 is designed to establish a toll-free helpline for first responders, health care workers, and other frontline workers who are experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of their service during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Proposed by Assemblyman Gregory P. McGuckin and Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn, the bill aims to provide immediate support and resources to those who have been significantly impacted by their frontline duties during the health crisis.
If enacted, A767 is expected to represent a significant step forward in supporting the mental health of New Jersey's frontline workers, facilitating their recovery and resilience as they navigate the challenges stemming from their vital roles during the pandemic. The bill's unique focus on providing support specifically tailored to the emotional and psychological needs of these workers positions it as a critical public health measure in New Jersey.
One of the notable aspects of A767 is its provision for confidentiality, allowing individuals to seek help without fear of stigmatization. This emphasis on privacy is intended to encourage more individuals to come forward and use the helpline services. However, the legislation also allows for tracking cases where operators believe a consulted person might pose a risk to themselves or others, raising potential concerns over the balance between confidentiality and safety.