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.