RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN (WGNS) - First Responder Wellness Week (March 23–29) is now underway across the country, Ascension Saint Thomas Behavioral Health Hospital is using the moment to spotlight the men and women who run toward emergencies every day—and the toll that work can take.

Here in Rutherford County, first responders answer thousands of calls each year, often stepping into high‑stress, unpredictable, and traumatic situations. Research continues to show what many in public safety already know firsthand: the mental and emotional strain of the job is significant. National studies estimate that nearly one in three first responders may experience symptoms of PTSD at some point in their career, compared to about one in five adults in the general population. In some years, suicide rates among certain first responder groups have even outpaced line‑of‑duty deaths, underscoring the urgent need for accessible behavioral health support.

To help meet that need, Ascension Saint Thomas Behavioral Health Hospital recently launched Beyond the Call, a program designed specifically for first responders dealing with the cumulative effects of stress, trauma, or burnout. The initiative focuses on providing tailored behavioral health care that acknowledges the unique pressures of police officers, firefighters, EMTs, dispatchers, and other emergency personnel.

A special THANK YOU to the emergency responders with Murfreesboro Police Department, Murfreesboro Fire-Rescue, Rutherford County Sheriffs Office, Rutherford County Fire-Rescue, Rutherford County Emergency Medical Services, MTSU Police Department, Smyrna Police, Smyrna Fire-Rescue, La Vergne Police, La Vergne Fire-Rescue, Eagleville Police, and the volunteer firefighters throughout this area.