Why is First Responder Mental Health Important?
Why is our mental health important? I know there are several of us who ask ourselves that question more than what we want to admit. I am no different. But this is why mental health is important to me, it impacts how we cope with life’s stresses, build relationships (or strain them), realize our full potential, contribute to our communities and departments, and overall how we maintain a good quality of life; essentially, it’s a crucial part of our overall well-being, affecting our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors on a daily basis. When I started in the fire service, it was taboo to talk about our mental health. I come from the era of “Suck it up, butter cup.”
The beginning of my fire service career was no different than my time on active duty in the United States Navy during the first Gulf War. We did not talk about it; heck, I do not even remember it being a training topic that the Navy continuously forced down our throats, such as sexual diseases and how they treated those. How times have changed and for the better.
We, as firefighters and first responders, face a unique set of challenges that can have a significant impact on our mental health. The nature of our work involves exposure to traumatic events, high-stress situations, and the potential for physical danger, all of which can lead to various mental health issues. By no means am I an expert on this topic; what I am sharing with you is what I have learned and what was shared with me over my career. One of the biggest things that I have learned over time is that it was okay for me to share my struggles. Being an officer did not automatically put a force shield around me and protect me from the evils this world can cast upon us; in fact, it compounded them. It was not just me that I needed to think about; I had a crew, and now I have an entire department to think about, to protect and take care of.
I can remember shortly after I became Chief of Alliance, we were talking about critical incident stress management debriefings. Some did not see the importance of those, and then there were some, me included, who saw the importance behind them and what the debriefings did for the members. I was and always will be an advocate for CISM debriefings. The culture of our department and how those debriefings are looked at have made a dramatic turn for the good.
The tide shifted when we had a trench collapse in our community that took the life of a plumbing contractor. We called for a CISM debrief, and I took the bold move of making it mandatory for all our responders who were on the scene that day. I say bold move only because up until that point, they were optional, not even strongly encouraged to attend. I was the first in the group to speak, and every responder who was on the scene for that call was taking part in the debriefing. Honestly, I do not remember all of what I said, but I do remember I broke down in tears. Everyone wondered why I had a box of Kleenex beside me before we started, that is why.
The next to go was our probationary firefighter, I will call him CR. CR was not in the department long, but what he said hit me like a ton of bricks. He said, “It is nice to know the Chief is human, he has a heart, he cares, and now I know it’s okay for me to share my feelings and that I am in a safe place.” That was the aha moment for me, and I know it was for our fire department as well.
Calling for CISM debriefings in Alliance is second nature; we no longer must think about whether we need one or not. We need them; our members need them. We have had two CISM debriefs since November 2024. At both of those, every member that was on scene was present and actively participating in those debriefings. If your department does not participate in CISM debriefs I encourage you to do so. They are easy to arrange, all you must do is call the Statewide Dispatch Number to request a debriefing. The number is 402-479-4921.
Here are some key points to consider about first responder mental health:
1. Exposure to Trauma
Firefighters often witness horrific scenes, including fatalities, severe injuries, and property destruction, which can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Over time, repeated exposure to traumatic incidents can result in cumulative stress, making it essential for firefighters to address their mental health proactively.
2. Mental Health Issues
Firefighters may experience anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and PTSD. Studies indicate that rates of these conditions in firefighters are often higher than in the general population. The stigma surrounding mental health can prevent many of us from seeking help, fearing that it may be seen as a sign of weakness. I am here to tell you, it is not a sign of weakness, it is a sign of strength!
3. Support Systems
Many fire departments implement peer support programs, allowing firefighters to talk openly with colleagues who understand the unique pressures of the job. This occurs in Alliance, and we do not have a formal peer support team or program yet.
Counseling and Therapy: Access to mental health professionals familiar with the firefighting culture is crucial for adequate support.
Family Involvement: Education and support for family members can also be beneficial, as they can play a vital role in a firefighter's mental health journey.
4. Resilience Training
Some departments actively teach resilience and coping strategies to firefighters to help them manage stress and trauma. This might include mindfulness, stress management techniques, and physical fitness programs.
5. Awareness and Advocacy
Increasing awareness of mental health issues within the firefighting community helps reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek help. Various campaigns and organizations advocate for improved mental health resources for firefighters.
In conclusion, addressing mental health in firefighters is not just about providing resources; it is about creating an environment where mental well-being is prioritized and understood. Continued efforts to reduce stigma, provide education, and ensure access to quality mental health services are essential for the well-being of those who serve on the front lines. There are several resources out there other than Nebraska’s Critical Incident Stress Management debriefs that I spoke of above. One other resource I want to share with you is NVFC’s Share the Load Fire/EMS Helpline, it is free, confidential, and available 24/7. The helpline number is: 1-888-731-FIRE (3473). Until next time, stay safe!
Troy Shoemaker,
NSVFA 2nd Vice President