PTSD Awareness Month
The common phrase I see on social media posts for PTSD Awareness Month is “not all wounds are visible.” This is true – a lot of times we miss signs that someone is struggling. We won’t see the signs if we don’t know what we’re looking for. Changing the conversation on post-traumatic stress and mental health in the first responder community has gained immense traction. Active and retired first responders are speaking out and sharing their stories so others know they are not alone. Facilities and organizations have been formed throughout the country focusing on supporting the mental health of first responders and their families. It has been amazing to witness.
However, I’ve noticed a common feeling and opinion amongst family, friends, colleagues, and clients. First responders are told about resources they can access for their mental health and are encouraged to use them, but they won’t follow through because there isn’t trust. They don’t trust their departments, chain of command, supervisors, etc. They don’t feel fully and truly supported. It is very disappointing and disheartening to hear from clients they are not receiving the support their departments are claiming to provide.
Treating post-traumatic stress is not a one-size-fits-all scenario. Vetting your resources of who you refer your first responders to is crucial. Peer assistance, CISM, EAP are invaluable but can’t always meet the needs if someone needs deeper care. Therapists who have certain certifications and training to work with first responders do not guarantee a competent provider. Even when your department has a trusted therapist, they still may not be the right fit for everyone.
If you really care about helping those who are silently, or not so silently, struggling with post-traumatic stress, then don’t just tell them it’s okay to reach out, show them. If the departments actions are not backing up the messages they are putting out there, then your first responders will believe you truly care about them as much as law enforcement officers believe a suspect when they say “These aren’t my pants” after drugs are found in their pockets. As I recently heard from someone, don’t be their boss, be their leader; set an example.
As someone in a leadership role, if you think you have been successful in supporting the wellness of your first responders, but the numbers do not reflect that, then ask yourself why. Your officers, firefighters, paramedics, dispatchers, and corrections officers have been telling you what they need to feel supported. Listen to them.
For the departments that have a go-to therapist they refer to, it’s important to show why you trust that therapist. Have the therapist stop by before, during, or after shifts and introduce themselves. Inviting the therapist to do a ride along or shadow is also a good way to truly see the reality of the jobs. If someone you work with comes to you and recommends a therapist, listen to what their experience has been. First responders trust the opinions of those they work beside every day.
For those in a leadership position, how often are you checking in with those you are responsible for? Have you been properly trained to recognize the signs of post-traumatic stress and how to address it? Checking in with others on a regular basis is one way to show you care and to encourage those who may be struggling to feel more comfortable reaching out and asking for help.
Not all wounds are visible. Let’s not wait until they are visible to check in and follow up. If you always wait until you see “obvious” signs something is wrong, it may be too late.
