[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.23.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]As an EMS worker, the daily call to duty is about saving lives. Yet, the harsh reality is that every hero has a human heart beating beneath their uniform. We’re not just emergency responders; we’re people, and our mental health matters too. I’ve been there – carrying the weight of countless emergencies on my shoulders while neglecting my own wellbeing. But, like many of us in this line of work, I learned that self-care is not a luxury – it’s an essential part of the job.
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It was a chilly winter night when the unthinkable happened. A particularly grueling call left me emotionally drained. The images of suffering, pain, and loss lingered long after the sirens fell silent. I couldn’t shake off the feeling of being stuck in an endless loop, reliving those moments again and again. That’s when I realized that my mental health was as crucial to my job performance as the gear in my ambulance or the knowledge in my head.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.23.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” column_structure=”1_2,1_2″][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.23.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]Finding My Support Network
The journey towards mental wellness began with acknowledging that I wasn’t alone. I reached out to colleagues, friends, and professionals for support. They shared their own experiences and provided valuable insights into managing stress and maintaining a healthy mindset. I started attending workshops on emotional resilience and became more aware of the resources available to EMS personnel – from counseling sessions to peer-support groups.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]Building Mental Fortitude
It’s important to remember that mental health is not about being invulnerable or immune to negative emotions; it’s about developing coping mechanisms and building mental fortitude. I began practicing mindfulness exercises such as deep breathing, meditation, and journaling. These practices helped me stay grounded during high-pressure situations and improved my ability to process difficult emotions.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.23.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://staging.statpacks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image6-scaled.jpeg” title_text=”image6″ _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]Advocating for Change
As a community, we can strive to better address the mental health needs of EMS workers. I have been actively advocating for change within my department, pushing for mandatory mental health training, increased awareness of available resources, and fostering a safe space for open dialogue about mental health concerns. Together with my colleagues, we are committed to creating a supportive and understanding work environment where self-care is not only encouraged but celebrated.
As an EMS worker, I fulfill various roles – caregiver, problem solver, and now, advocate for mental health awareness. Though it has been a challenging journey, I have realized the importance of taking care of myself, not just for personal wellbeing, but also for the lives I save every day.
By prioritizing mental health, we ensure that those who are there for us in our moments of need are also cared for. Here’s a toast to all EMS workers – may your sirens always lead you to saving lives and caring for your own well-being along the way. #IMCode7
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