"Write hard and clear about what hurts.” –Earnest Hemingway Have you ever considered keeping a journal? Whether you are highly experienced or have no experience at all with journaling, I'd like to recommend three resources for deepening your journaling experience.
The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron is often considered a guide for unlocking creativity, but its principles extend well beyond the artistic realm. For fire rescue personnel, who regularly face intense situations and high-stress environments, the practices outlined in the book can serve as valuable mental health tools:
"The deepest satisfaction of writing is precisely that it opens up new spaces within us of which we were not aware before we started to write. To write is to embark on a journey whose final destination we do not know.." –Henri Houwen
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Have you ever watched any of the Narnia films that came out in the early 2000’s?
C.S. Lewis was a British author, scholar, and thinker best known for works like The Chronicles of Narnia. There are three main feature-length Narnia films in the series that began in the 2000's;
The Chronicles of Narnia, created by author C.S. Lewis, depict a series of adventures set in a magical world that children from our own reality enter through unexpected portals, such as a wardrobe. Once there, these young travelers find themselves fighting alongside talking animals and mythical creatures under the guidance of the great lion, Aslan—a symbol of leadership, integrity, and sacrifice. For firefighters, think of Narnia as a dynamic incident scene, constantly shifting conditions that demand courage, unity, and quick decision-making. The main challenges aren’t burning buildings, but moral conflicts, battles between good and evil, and the spread of fear and oppression—much like a fire spreading through structures if unchecked. Instead of hoses and axes, the children and their allies wield swords, bows, and personal resilience. The White Witch is the primary source of chaos and cold tyranny; taking her on is akin to containing the seat of a blaze before it engulfs the entire landscape. Aslan’s presence is much like a chief arriving on scene with both wisdom and compassion, guiding everyone toward the right course of action. Just as firefighters must trust their training and each other to get through dire scenarios, the heroes in Narnia rely on loyalty, faith, and teamwork. Each book in the series focuses on different crews of children and creatures tackling big challenges that threaten Narnia’s safety and stability. The result is a timeless narrative about responsibility, heroism, and the triumph of courage over despair—values any team of first responders can appreciate. C.S. wrote two books on human suffering…(1) The Problem of Pain and (2) A Grief Observed Ultimately, The Problem of Pain doesn’t deny the raw cruelty and mystery of suffering but aims to offer a framework in which pain, far from being pointless cruelty, can become part of a meaningful—and ultimately hopeful—narrative of growth and redemption. The Problem of Pain is an outsiders perspective. Four key areas of focus in The Problem of Pain; (1) The Nature of a Good God (2) Free Will and Human Responsibility (3) Pain as a “Megaphone (4) Redemptive Suffering A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis is a deeply personal journal of loss, where Lewis grapples openly with the emotional and spiritual aftermath of his wife’s death. It is an insider’s perspective. Instead of a neat set of answers, it’s more like sitting alongside someone at the scene of a devastating incident—where no easy fix exists, and the wreckage isn’t made of broken timbers or scorched walls, but of a shattered heart and shaken faith. For firefighters, think of this book as exploring the emotional wreckage following a catastrophic call. After the flames are out, the aftermath might be full of questions, doubts, and feelings we can’t simply wash away with the hose. A Grief Observed shows that intense sorrow and confusion are normal human responses when something—someone—irreplaceable is lost. Lewis doesn’t preach at you; rather, he shares his own vulnerable struggle to find stability when the familiar frameworks of faith and understanding feel burned to the ground. In the same way a crew might rely on each other after a tough call, Lewis’s words remind us that it’s okay to question what we thought we knew, lean on the support of others, and gradually rebuild trust—both in ourselves and in whatever we hold sacred. The book ultimately suggests that facing our deepest pain honestly and without shame can help us move forward, stronger and more compassionate, as we return to serve and protect. Lucy Hone, a psychologist and expert in resilience and grief, offers practical strategies for navigating grief, especially during emotionally charged times like the holidays. Here are some of her key recommendations:
We all have a story we tell ourselves about ourselves. In this case, there are a handful of excuses we might be tempted to tell ourselves when we are considering making our first counseling appointment, Do any of these feel familiar to the story you are telling yourself?
You've probably heard the phrase, "hurt people, hurt people" but what does the phrase "healing people, heal people" really mean? People who are dedicated to and take full ownership of own their own healing journey can become even sharper healing instruments in their caregiving roles. Conversely, people who neglect or abandon their own healing and wholeness while remaining in active caregiving roles eventually do harm to themselves and quite possibly to those who they seek to serve and care for.
Thank goodness you are able to take definitive action and schedule an appointment with Elbow Tree! (Shameless plug for you to call 904.877.4750 to get scheduled with an Elbow Tree Co-Op counselor). Regular mental health counseling can have a profoundly positive impact on employees working in Health and Human Services (HHS). Given the demanding nature of their roles, which often involve high-stress situations and exposure to challenging human conditions, counseling offers numerous benefits:
Based on "Resilient Grieving" by Lucy Hone and "A Grace Disguised" by Jerry Sittser
Grief is a profound and multifaceted emotion that doesn't adhere to a set timeline, often resurfacing with renewed intensity around significant dates. As the anniversary of a loved one's passing approaches, it's common to experience a complex blend of emotions—from deep sorrow and longing to cherished memories and even moments of peace. This milestone can serve as both a painful reminder of the loss and a testament to the enduring impact the person had on one's life. Acknowledging these feelings is an essential part of the healing journey, providing an opportunity to honor the memory of the departed while also reflecting on personal growth and the ways in which their legacy continues to shape the present. As you find yourself approaching the anniversary date of specific loss in your life, do not hesitate to reach out to us at Elbow Tree. We would love to help you navigate any unattended heartache you are carrying around. Call us at 904.877.4750 and we will help you get connected with an Elbow Tree team member. Grief Resilience Assessment Tool (GRAT 1.0) - Part One Method: Personal Reflection and Contemplation This assessment tool is designed for folks who are navigating the complex journey of grief. Integrating the insights and principles from Lucy Hone's "Resilient Grieving" and Jerry Sittser's "A Grace Disguised," this tool aims to:
Section 1: Understanding the Nature of Grief Purpose: To gauge your perception of your grief and how it affects your daily life.
Section 2: Resilience and Coping Strategies Purpose: To assess your resilience levels and coping mechanisms, both positive and negative.
Section 3: Meaning-Making and Personal Growth Purpose: To explore how the you are processing your loss and whether you can find meaning or opportunities for growth.
Section 4: Support Systems and Relationships Purpose: To evaluate your support network and the quality of your relationships during the grieving process.
Section 5: Spiritual and Existential Reflections Purpose: To understand your spiritual beliefs and how these may influence your grieving process.
Section 6: Setting Goals for Healing Purpose: To collaboratively establish goals and identify steps you can take toward healing and resilience.
Grief Resilience Assessment Tool (GRAT 1.0) - Part Two Method: Rating Scale Introduction Grieving is a deeply personal journey that varies greatly from one individual to another. This assessment tool is designed to help you reflect on your resilience in the face of grief. Drawing from the wisdom of renowned authors who have explored the depths of loss and healing, this tool aims to provide insights into your coping mechanisms and identify areas where you might benefit from additional support or self-care. Please note: This assessment is for personal reflection only and is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. Instructions
Assessment Statements Section 1: Acceptance and Understanding of Grief
Section 2: Finding Meaning and Transformation
Section 3: Focusing on What Can Be Changed
Section 4: Connection and Support
Section 5: Navigating Transitions
Scoring
Interpretation
Remember: This assessment is a starting point for reflection. Grief is complex, and resilience can fluctuate over time. High or low scores are not judgments but insights to help you understand where you are in your journey. Next Steps
Your journey through grief is uniquely yours, and it's okay to seek help along the way. Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Always consult a qualified professional for medical or psychological concerns. BOOKS ON GRIEF: Here are ten influential and widely acclaimed books on grief that many readers have found helpful:
These books cover a range of perspectives and experiences with grief, offering insights, comfort, and practical advice to help readers navigate their own journeys through loss. Approaching someone about their mental well-being, especially concerning suicidal thoughts, can be an emotionally challenging task. One primary reason it's difficult is the fear of saying the wrong thing and potentially making the situation worse. People often worry that bringing up the topic of suicide might introduce the idea or exacerbate the person's distress, even though research shows that open conversations can provide relief and are a crucial step in prevention.
Another obstacle is the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide. Societal taboos and misconceptions can make individuals hesitant to discuss such sensitive topics openly. They may fear judgment, rejection, or damaging the relationship. This discomfort can lead to avoidance, leaving the person who is struggling feeling more isolated and less likely to seek help on their own. Lastly, personal emotional barriers play a significant role. Confronting the possibility that someone you care about is experiencing suicidal thoughts can be overwhelming. It may trigger feelings of fear, guilt, or denial. Additionally, not knowing how to handle the conversation or the potential outcomes—such as the person becoming upset or disclosing thoughts of self-harm—can make it daunting to initiate the dialogue without proper guidance or resources. Specific Risk Factors to Look For When a Firefighter Is at Risk Firefighters face unique occupational hazards that can increase their risk for mental health challenges, including suicidal ideation. One significant risk factor is repeated exposure to traumatic events. Regular encounters with fires, accidents, and fatalities can lead to cumulative stress or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Signs of PTSD—such as intrusive memories, heightened anxiety, or emotional numbness—can contribute to feelings of hopelessness if not addressed. Another risk factor is the high-stress work environment coupled with a culture that may discourage expressing vulnerability. The expectation to remain strong and composed can make it difficult for firefighters to acknowledge their struggles or seek help. This internalization of stress can lead to isolation, depression, or unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance misuse. Additionally, work-related stressors such as irregular shifts, sleep deprivation, and physical exhaustion can exacerbate mental health issues. Personal life stressors—including relationship difficulties, financial problems, or lack of social support—can further compound these challenges. Observable signs like withdrawal from colleagues, decreased job performance, changes in mood or behavior, and expressing feelings of being a burden are critical indicators that a firefighter may be at increased risk and in need of support. If you suspect that someone is experiencing suicidal ideation, it's important to approach the situation with care, compassion, and urgency. Here's what you can do: 1. Reach Out and Communicate
2. Listen Non-Judgmentally
3. Assess the Immediate Risk
4. Encourage Professional Help
5. Offer Ongoing Support
6. Take Care of Yourself
7. Emergency Action (If Necessary)
Additional Tips
Remember: Your compassion and willingness to engage can make a significant difference. Encouraging them to seek professional help is crucial, as trained mental health professionals can provide the specialized support they need. Important: If you believe someone is in immediate danger, do not hesitate to contact emergency services or reach out to a mental health professional for guidance on how to proceed. Lowering cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, is crucial for maintaining balance and reducing stress-related symptoms. Here are some effective activities to help lower cortisol levels:
1. Mindfulness Meditation
Slow paddle boarding can be a powerful way to restore trauma, as it combines mindfulness, physical activity, and a connection to nature. Here's why it can be effective:
1. Mindfulness & Present Moment Awareness Paddle boarding requires focus and balance, which can help bring individuals into the present moment. This is key in trauma recovery, where individuals often struggle with being grounded in the here and now. Being on the water naturally encourages mindfulness—focusing on the rhythmic movement of the paddle, the gentle flow of the water, and the surrounding nature. 2. Physical Release of Stored Tension Trauma often leads to physical tension or an overwhelmed nervous system. Paddle boarding is a low-impact exercise that helps release this tension gently. The rhythmic, slow paddling movements can regulate breathing and reduce the fight-or-flight response often triggered in trauma survivors. 3. Connection with Nature Nature has inherent healing qualities. Studies show that time spent in natural environments can lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels, reduce anxiety, and promote a sense of calm. Being surrounded by water, in particular, has a calming effect on the mind and body, providing a therapeutic setting for healing. 4. Balancing Mind and Body Paddle boarding requires physical balance, which mirrors the need for emotional and mental balance in trauma recovery. The act of keeping steady on the board while navigating the water can represent how one can regain stability in life. It builds self-trust and body awareness, which are often disrupted by trauma. 5. Restorative, Non-Competitive Movement Unlike high-intensity sports, slow paddle boarding allows the individual to move at their own pace, promoting relaxation and self-compassion. There is no pressure to perform or achieve, making it a soothing practice that can gently reconnect the body and mind. Incorporating paddle boarding into a trauma recovery process can be a way to heal through nature, mindful movement, and re-establishing a connection with oneself. 1. Understanding the Unique Challenges
We can foster a meaningful and productive discussion about suicide prevention within the context of fire rescue peer support. |
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