First responders discuss importance of mental health resources [Video]

KENT COUNTY, Mich. — The recent deaths of two deputies from Oakland and Hillsdale Counties and the death of a firefighter in Warren have put further focus on the importance of mental health resources for first responders.

“Every time this happens, it’s like you’re losing a member of your family,” said retired police officer Scott Taylor.

Taylor is now a lead peer for Frontline Strong Together (FST5), a first-of-its-kind network that connects first responders with mental health resources specifically fit for their needs. 

“You look at the effects that it has on everybody across the board and it’s like getting stabbed yourself because you know that it affects their agency so strongly,” said former dispatcher and current FST5 peer trainer Kristie Buruse.

FST5 was created after police and fire unions lobbied the State of Michigan to …