It could be fire, natural disaster, or a medical emergency. First responders help us when we are most in need.
Whenever there is an emergency, they are the ones who answer the call. First responders help us when we are most in need.
Witnessing and being immersed in experiences that are painful, difficult, and deadly takes its toll. Burnout is not uncommon as the trauma of witnessing such tragedies can wear on first responders.
Even the hardiest individual has their breaking point. Are you a first responder struggling with the emotional wounds of your profession?
Here’s how to cope when you are the one who’s wounded by trauma.
Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Trauma with Yourself
First, it helps to be familiar with the signs and symptoms of trauma. These include:
Not finding pleasure in experiences you once enjoyed
Feeling distracted
Having unwanted and distressing thoughts
Being on edge all the time
Trying to avoid being in situations that bring up traumatic memories
Getting angry with others easily
Difficulty staying focused
Drinking or using drugs as a way to numb yourself
Consider whether or not you have had any of these symptoms lately. It might be that they have been happening for a while but you hadn’t been able to put all the pieces together.
Focus on Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle
One of the most effective ways to cope with trauma is by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Staying healthy allows you to have a better mindset and a healthy body. Both are needed when facing trauma, especially if you have been exposed to multiple traumas throughout your career. Some ways to stay healthy include:
Exercise: You might already work out to stay in condition for your job. However, exercise is also an effective way to cope with trauma. It requires you to focus in the moment, blocking out distracting thoughts. Exercise also releases endorphins as well.
Diet: Maintaining a healthy diet is also important for staying healthy. You need the nutrients from a balanced diet to function properly. Soda and snacks taste good but, over time, they will take their toll on both your physical and mental health.
Community: Do things with others. This might include playing sports in a rec league, pursuing a hobby, or attending a place of worship. When you spend time with others you feel more connected and a sense of belonging. This helps to counter the isolation that people often feel when coping with trauma.
Talk to Someone
This is perhaps the most challenging issue when it comes to trauma and first responders. First responders are often hesitant to talk about what they went through. Reliving the memories can be painful. Or perhaps you don’t want to burden others with such things. There may also be a perception that talking about traumatic experiences makes you appear weak.
The culture around this issue is changing and first responders are being encouraged to talk to others about how they are feeling. Open up to a colleague or friend in your department or unit. There might be a separate department within your organization that is intended to support first responders. Check to see what resources are available to you.
Trauma and First Responders: Getting Professional Help
Finally, if you are still struggling with trauma, it’s important that you get professional help. Seriously consider trauma therapy. Just as treatment is an important tool for the people you rescue, it also helps you resolve traumatic experiences mentally and emotionally. Think of it as it is an opportunity to find closure on these issues so that you can continue to serve others fully and capably.
Concerning trauma and first responders, it can be difficult to bear what you must witness. Please know that there are many people who want to support you. These include your friends, family, and your fellow first responders. However, if you are having trouble now, don’t hesitate to ask for help now. Talk to a counselor with experience in trauma therapy. I am here for you
