The crew of Station 53 in St. Cloud received a visit from K-9 Merlin for an impromptu therapy session this morning as part of their training. Merlin is a 7 year old Australian Shepherd who works for a local nonprofit organization K9 helps heroes as a trauma response dog who offers therapy and relieves stress and anxiety after crisis situations.
The company of a dog or other pet, talking to family or friends, or other ways to deal with stress and traumatic experiences can improve your mental health, and it’s important to know that you don’t need to be ashamed of life’s challenges to fight.
If you or someone you know needs help over the holidays or anytime, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text the Crisis Text Line with HI at 741741 Both services are confidential, free, and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week