City of Dallas employees get paid time off to address mental health

Many first responders and other City of Dallas employees encounter traumatic events on the job. Regularly experiencing trauma can have a negative impact on one’s mental health. This is especially true for first responders. In fact, five Dallas firefighters have taken their lives in the past five years. On Wednesday, March 9, The Dallas City Council unanimously approved a new rule that expands paid mental health leave to include all of the city’s employees. The new rule would allow up to 60 hours of paid time off per fiscal year for firefighters and up to 40 hours for other employees. The need for leave would have to be verified by a licensed psychiatrist or psychologist. Remember, it is ok to get help and resources are available when needed. If you or someone you know are having thoughts of hurting yourself or someone else or are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Crisis Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).