App helping Kentucky first responders manage mental health

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WKYT) - Navigating the effects of a natural disaster can be both physically and psychologically taxing.

Central Kentucky’s flooding was no exception.

As numerous communities across Central Kentucky continue to rebuild what flood water washed away, many folks say this has taken a toll on their mental health. There’s a specific group of people that some may not realize are facing this as well.

Frankfort Police Assistant Chief Scott Tracy says the average person will see 1-3 traumatic events in their lifetime, whereas first responders will see around 700. So, first responders need to prioritize their mental health, especially when working through natural disasters.

Stacy says before the flood, the department was working on rolling out the app ‘Cordico’ within their department. It’s a mental and physical wellness app for first responders.

He says that, through the app, officers can take assessments, see where they rank with their mental health, and connect with real-life counselors and chaplains if needed.

“When these things happen, we have to be able to talk about them,” Tracy said. “One of the worst things we can do is just shove it deep down and try to ignore it, because those things affect us.”

Tracy says the app is geared toward police, firefighters, EMS, telecommunicators, and even all of their spouses.

He says the app will be ready for folks to download and fully use within the next week.

Tracy adds that the app will also be available for retired first responders to use.

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