Not many people really know what firefighters have to go through on a daily basis, and the amount of emotional and physical stress that takes its toll on them. Their work schedules, station culture and its demands to perform in life and death situations. This combined with normal family/life situations can be overwhelming. Like all of us many firefighters are also battling their own inner demons. It can difficult to balance such high demands and pressure properly without hurting those they cherish most
Firefighters perform so much more in their job occupation than just fighting fires. Car crashes, drownings, mass shootings, infant and elderly pronouncements, rapes, murders and every emergency were life and property are threatened.
Firefighters are faced with emotional needs that are very unique. The percentage of firefighters struggling with career related stress is very high. It manifests itself through higher divorce rates and addictions. Another major concern is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), as well as increasing rates of suicide. When symptoms occur, a firefighter needs a support system in place that is readily accessible from someone who is qualified and truly understands his/her circumstances.
What really hurts a Firefighter is the effects on his or her family. The inability to adjust from the station culture to a home environment is the real loss.
A Firefighters must develop coping mechanisms to perform under pressure for 30 plus years and we must give Firefighters the coping mechanisms to bridge between the job and home.
The spouses, partners and children must all be involved to create a culture at home that is supportive of the firefighter but just as supportive of the spouses and the demands of being in relationship with a Firefighter.
This is our mission and dedicated therapist are our partners.
