Supporting First Responders in the Workplace
As some of you know; I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, a former Behavioral Health Unit Social Worker and most importantly, the WIFE OF A FIREFIGHTER. I know the importance of simple behavior changes to prevent injuries from stress and trauma. I work to provide the information to those that deserve it most.
According to an article published on August 23, 2018 on Forbes.com, “More Firefighters Committed Suicide in 2017 than died in the line of duty”. The article also stated that the Journal of Emergency Medical Services reported, “In a 2015 survey of more than 4000 first responders; that 37% had contemplated suicide and 7% had attempted it. That is more than ten times the rate of the general population”. Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance (FFBHA) has also stated they estimate only 40% of firefighter suicides are voluntarily reported. These statistics are devastating and unfortunately, seem to only be on the rise. Being placed in dangerous situations, experiencing death, injury and traumas regularly, the lack of sleep, or even dealing with aging and loss of the physical ability to do the job through dealing with a loss of identity can increase the risk of stress and trauma associated injuries.
As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, I know simple additions to our environment can encourage follow through of intended behavior change. The more apparent something is and the easier it is to access the information, the more likely someone is to retain the information. Additionally, I know there are simple and effective behaviors one can implement daily to reduce the effects and injuries caused by stress and trauma. We have the information; we just need to get it to the right professionals. This is where I can assist…
As a Fire Wife, I know the importance of providing this information to first responders, law enforcement, military and hospital staff. I also know that while resources are becoming readily available, not all will feel comfortable seeking help or voicing that they are struggling with their mental health. This is why I feel an alternative is needed. An alternative that individuals can implement on their own without asking for help, as asking for the help is often the barrier to receiving help. It is imperative and as they say in the field, we cannot leave anyone behind. I have created simple “Stress Sheets” that will be available to departments, hospitals and agencies so their employees can retain the information and practice on their own, as needed. I am excited to have found a simple way to disseminate the information and help those that spend their lives helping others.
To do this, I teach the use of self management strategies to best support the needs of a first responder, law enforcement or hospital staff. Most importantly, Professionals can benefit from the tools outlined without reaching out to anyone else. These coping strategies and stress reduction techniques will be reinforced by the prompts on posters provided to hang in the workplace, hospital emergency departments, fire stations, police stations, etc. These techniques can assist with the symptoms of post traumatic stress, recharge energy, strengthen instincts, allow the body to resort back to proper sleep cycles and has been shown to regulate the sympathetic nervous system.
We know this is an issue, we have the DATA, and the statistics are devastating. I feel being PROACTIVE about this crisis is important. Please reach out if I can send you some stress sheets for your organization or department.
