First Responders

It finally happened!

You followed your dreams, and they came true.

You studied your ass off, sat through classes, got through the academy, finished your hours, went through probation period, and finally were able to do things on your own.

At first, the job was love at first shift, but now it doesn’t feel like a dream.

You can’t seem to enjoy work anymore.

You show up.

As a firefighter, you are the first to hear those cries of help, the first to help that mother attempt to bring back life to her son, and the first to climb up those burning houses. These responses are part of your training, and you always show up no matter what the situation.

As a police officer, you must protect and serve, take those calls no matter the circumstances, stop the shooting, show up at the murder scene, and protect others when riots, burglary, and assaults happen. Then you show up to court and relive this event again. You always show up.

As a hospital worker, you have seen people mangled and burned while hearing their screams for help and trying to keep them alive. You help and talk to those who have been victims of violence and assaults and witnessed how atrocities and diseases impact adults’ and children’s lives. You do your best, but sometimes, it’s not enough – even though you always show up.

Showing up means there is no time to stop.

First responders are always on the move, and there is little to no time to feel those uncommentable feelings. After all, you can’t do anything about it right now. Right?

So, you must disconnect from how you feel and continue to follow your training. Time has now passed, and it hits you. A sense of numbness creeps in, leaving you feeling confused, disoriented, and having trouble concentrating. It doesn’t feel the same anymore.

You are doing more for less, and the expectations haven’t changed.

Maybe it’s burnout, vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, cultural pressures, or you miss being home with your family.

It’s time to take the time!

Yes, the job as a first responder is rewarding, and it’s something you choose to do.

At the same time, the demands and expectations placed on first responders can take their toll, leaving you doubting yourself and the service you provide. Those feelings are normal and understandable for first responders, and taking time to voice how you feel is essential for your mental health and ability to continue your service to those in need.

So, stop suffering in silence and find a way to reflect on how you feel. With help, you can still feel how others feel, kick ass at your job, and build resilience.

I understand how you feel, and I offer a place where you can work to find relief and encouragement as that allows more balance in your life as a first responder.

Having my Certified First Responder Counselor (CFRC) training means that I work closely with fire and police departments and know that sometimes it’s not the calls that can cause the most distress but the aftermath of going home and not always knowing what to say to those around us when they ask “So how was your day?”

Our approach depends on your needs because one size does not fit all. It’s time to remember why this was your dream!