Jumpline magazine Spring 2025 - Flipbook - Page 41
Emily Gould
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
FRRF- Saving Those Who Save Us
Saving Those Who Save Us: The Urgent
Need for Social Support and Healthy Coping
Skills for First Responders
This Article is in honor of Captain William “Bill” Gustin who
ended his own life in March 2025. He was deeply respected,
loved by many, and an inspiration to us all. This is the second
time in the past year that we’ve experienced such a profound
loss, and it’s something we have to address head-on.
First responders sacri昀椀ce their physical and mental well-being
for others—running toward danger while others 昀氀ee. However, the weight of these responsibilities comes at a cost. The
mental and emotional toll of witnessing trauma, loss, and human suffering on a daily basis can be overwhelming, putting
昀椀rst responders at an increased risk of depression, PTSD, and
suicide.
Suicide Among First Responders
Studies show that 昀椀rst responders experience signi昀椀cantly
higher rates of suicide compared to the general population. According to the Ruderman Family Foundation, police of昀椀cers and
昀椀re昀椀ghters are more likely to die by suicide than in the
line of duty. The stigma surrounding mental health issues in these professions often prevents individuals
from seeking the help they desperately need. Fear
of being perceived as weak, job repercussions,
and the "tough it out" culture contribute to the silence surrounding this crisis.
The Role of Social Support
Social support is a crucial protective factor against
suicide risk. A strong support system—whether it be
family, friends, colleagues, or peer support groups—can
provide 昀椀rst responders with a safe space to share their experiences and emotions. Connecting with others who understand
the unique challenges of the job can help normalize feelings of
stress, reduce isolation, and encourage seeking professional
help when needed. Departments and agencies must foster environments where open conversations about mental health are
encouraged and supported. This has to be paired with the 昀椀rst
responder’s comfort with discussing dif昀椀cult topics and allowing
the support system to truly be there for them when needed. As
helping professionals, there is often a tendency to protect those
at home from work-related stress which can in turn isolate a 昀椀rst
responder outside of work hours.
Healthy Coping Skills: A Lifeline for Mental
Well-being
41
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices
such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help reduce
stress and improve emotional regulation.
Physical Fitness: Exercise has been proven to alleviate
symptoms of depression and anxiety while improving overall
well-being.
Engaging in Hobbies: Pursuing interests outside of work
provides a crucial mental break and helps maintain a balanced
life.
Family and Community Involvement: Strong connections with
loved ones and participation in community activities can offer
emotional support and a sense of belonging.
Breaking the Stigma: The Need for Cultural
Change
While progress has been made in recognizing mental health
challenges among 昀椀rst responders, a lot of work remains.
Departments and agencies must prioritize mental health as
much as physical well-being. This includes implementing mental health education, offering accessible and con昀椀dential
support services, and encouraging leaders to model
healthy behaviors.
Policies should ensure that 昀椀rst responders who
seek help do not face professional consequences.
Leaders and senior of昀椀cers should emphasize that
asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
First responders dedicate their lives to saving
others, but they must also be empowered to save
themselves. Addressing the mental health crisis within
these professions requires a cultural shift, increased support systems, and the promotion of healthy coping strategies.
By continuing open discussions, reducing stigma, and prioritizing mental well-being, we can ensure that you who serve our
communities receive the care and support you deserve.
If you or someone you know is a 昀椀rst responder struggling
with mental health issues, reach out to resources such as the
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) or organizations like
the First Responders Resiliency Foundation Hotline. it’s natural
to feel overwhelmed with grief, shock, and confusion.
Our Foundation recognizes the pain we are
all feeling. Please remember that you are not
alone. If you need to talk, don’t hesitate to
reach out to our hotline. We are here for you.
Developing and maintaining healthy coping skills is essential for 昀椀rst responders to manage stress and prevent burnout.
Some effective coping strategies include:
Peer Support Programs: Many departments have established peer support teams where trained personnel provide
con昀椀dential assistance to colleagues struggling with mental
health issues.
Therapy and Counseling: Regular therapy sessions with
professionals who specialize in trauma can help 昀椀rst responders process their experiences in a healthy way.
Foundation Hotline: 786-551-4911. Press 1 to speak with
a crisis counselor or press 2 to connect with our in-house clinician. FRRF is free and anonymous for all active and
retired Miami-Dade 昀椀re昀椀ghters.
Spring 2025 | JUMPLINE Magazine
