February 24, 2024 ImCode7
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.
Wake-up Call
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.
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.
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.
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