After seeing a growing number of firefighters struggling with suicide and mental health issues, one AFR chaplain wrote a song in hopes of destigmatizing the topic and sparking more conversation.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — About 100 U.S. firefighters die by suicide each year, according to the National Firefighters Association.
As lead chaplain for Albuquerque Fire and Rescue, it’s a reality David Myers faces in his line of work.
“We see a lot. We go through a lot. People tend to think of firefighters as big, bad, tough, and strong. While they are And we’re humans, too,” Myers said.
Myers provides education, support and resources to fellow firefighters who are struggling with their mental health.
His experiences and the losses he faced inspired him to write the song “Ropes”.
“Our department had a deficit several years ago. And, you know, there are other departments around the country that have suffered the same,” Myers said.
Mental health and suicide are often stigmatized, he says. He never thought he would write it into a song either.
“Have you ever seen a documentary about people who jumped off the Golden Gate Bridge and survived?” Myers pointed out. “And they said, ‘As soon as your feet leave, you’re going to regret it. Instant.’ So I was like, ‘Oh, I don’t want to do this anymore. I don’t want to do this anymore.'” is falling. This song seems to be about that space. What is that?
Myers said “Ropes” is heavy, but he wanted to dedicate it to his brothers and sisters in the line of duty.
“What I do know is that the number of suicides exceeds the number of firefighters killed in the line of duty,” he said. “So maybe we can dedicate it to our brothers and sisters in the fire service who have experienced it on some level. And hopefully this will bring them some peace.”
He hopes “Rope” will spark further conversations on the topic.
Myers said Albuquerque Fire Rescue is also working to enhance programs it already has in place to help more first responders within the department.
“Ropes” is available on all streaming platforms. If you would like to preview or purchase, click here.
