Emotional First Response And Hilchot Shabbat

In this episode of the HatzalaCast, Dr. Yosef Topek came on the show to discuss the Emotional First Response Unit! 

This is a unit that helps deal with many different issues that come up on a Hatzala call. 

When talking about mental health and just how important it is, we also have to wonder…

What happens on Shabbat?

In the interview, the question was asked to Dr. Topek about whether EFR is considered a query regarding Pikuach Nefesh.

The answer is simple! Yes! Dr. Topek explained that mental health is just as important as physical health and in regards to Shabbat, you are 100% allowed to go out on the call to be able to assist in the efforts! 

He did say that they asked numerous questions to Rabbanim and all agreed that mental health is most certainly Pikuach Nefesh. 

He went on to discuss how mental health is a big stigma in the Jewish community but is not something to shy away from. 

This is why an EFR unit is so important and why it is most certainly not an issue with Hilchot Shabbat.

Watch the full interview below!