JAC Credit Code: JPA

The behavioral health challenges faced by first responders are receiving greater appreciation. In light of these tragedies, this lesson discusses conditions such as burnout, compassion fatigue, and post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD). These conditions occur more frequently among firefighters and first responders than in the general population, yet their symptoms are often downplayed and left untreated.

Abundant help is available for those who seek for it, coordinated through fire departments and other fire services associations, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), health insurance providers, and clinical institutions. Firefighters should be familiar with these resources and pre-plan with their families on when and where they will turn for support when wellness concerns arise.

There is every reason to expect a happy and fulfilling life in the fire service and after retirement, but this depends on firefighters who take initiative in acknowledging symptoms and taking appropriate measures to enlist support and maintain long-term wellness.

The lesson introduces these concepts in preparation for a drill.

In light of increasing concerns about the behavioral health challenges faced by first responders, this lesson introduces the important role that stress plays in the lives of firefighters and their families. Although most people experience stress in their lives, first responders encounter stress at different times and in different ways than most other people and need to be prepared to manage the significant health risks associated with their stress.

There is every reason to expect a happy and fulfilling life in the fire service and after retirement, but this depends on firefighters who take initiative in assessing their stress levels; acknowledging symptoms; and applying coping mechanisms to re-energize, recover, and build long-term wellness.

The lesson introduces these concepts in preparation for a drill.