The City of Midland is working to ensure first responders are taking care of their mental health.
At the Midland City Council meeting Tuesday, the city approved a contract with a company called Lexipol for a three-year subscription for an app aimed at first responders.
Two years ago, they were introduced to the app at a fire conference. The app is all anonymous so police officers, firefighters and dispatchers can have a private outlet.
"Firemen and policemen both, they're proud so sometimes they don't want to ask for help," Managing Director of Public Safety Charles Blumenauer said. "By being able to do it anonymously through the app, because even when you first reach out through the app, it's anonymous, you'll get some feedback through the system if you need help. And then it'll give you the resources just to what you may need next. So that allows that piece of the app to keep you anonymous but guide you in a direction where, if you need further help, you can get there."
Once finalizing is finalized, the city will have trainings with Lexipol and have about 20 peer support teams that will also introduce the app to first responders' spouses.