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Observations and Reflections Promoting Firefighter Resilience

8 Things to Consider When Scheduling Your First Counseling Appointment

7/8/2023

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When scheduling their first counseling appointment, firefighters may want to consider the following things:
  1. Confidentiality:
    Ensure that the counseling service you choose maintains strict confidentiality. Firefighters may have concerns about privacy and the potential impact on their career, so it's important to find a counselor who adheres to professional confidentiality guidelines. At Elbow Tree Cooperative, every clinician is deeply committed to maintaining the strictest of confidentiality. This is specifically addressed through the intake documentation you complete and sign. Confidentiality and the Limitations of Confidentiality are both discussed immediately within the first few minutes of your first counseling appointment before a client shares any specifics of their current situation. {Florida Statute concerning limitations of confidentiality}.

    Bottom line, with the exception of certain limitations of confidentiality, n
    o one will ever know you are seeking counseling services unless you tell them. That would only be your right to share it, but most certainly not ours unless you specifically have signed a Release of Information requesting that we speak with someone on your behalf. . 
    ​
  2. Specialization:
    Look for a counselor who has experience or specialization in working with first responders or individuals in high-stress occupations. They will likely have a better understanding of the unique challenges faced by firefighters and can provide more targeted support.

    Every Elbow Tree clinician is committed to deepening and strengthening their professional cultural competency working with fire rescue personnel. On August 17-19, 2023, our team of Elbow Tree clinicians (along with others from around the region) will be attending the Florida Firefighter Health and Safety Collaborative's "Cultural Competency for Clinicians" 2-day training event in St. Augustine, Florida. This event is held in partnership with UCF Restore's director, Dr. Deborah Beidel. 100% of our 16 clinical team members are trained in EMDR which is an evidence based modality of therapy specifically designed to help individuals recover from trauma and distress .  


  3. Availability:
    Consider the counselor's availability and whether their schedule aligns with yours. Firefighters often work irregular hours, so finding a counselor who can accommodate your shift schedule is crucial.  

    THE ELBOW TREE PROCESS:

    STEP 1:
     
    When you make first contact with Elbow Tree, you will want to first call our 24/7 Live Operator (
    904.877.4750) who will gather the necessary information for helping you get linked to an Elbow Tree clinician. They will confidentially pass along your information to our "New Client Coordinator". 

    STEP 2: 
    Our "New Client Coordinator" will work behind the scenes to help get you linked with an Elbow Tree clinician. In some instances, the "New Client Coordinator" will reach back out to you directly to clarify some information if they have additional questions to explore how to best get you linked up with an Elbow Tree counselor who might best can serve your needs.

    STEP 3:
    You will be matched with a specific counselor who will reach back out to you to get you scheduled. Every counselor, will make contact with you within 24 hours of receiving the initial message from the "New Client Coordinator." 

    BOTTOM LINE: 
    Our goal is to get you scheduled for an appointment and seated in our offices within 7-10 days from the time we receive your initial inquiry.
    NOTE: If you ever experience any issue or delay in getting an appointment scheduled, we want to know.

    Y
    ou are not only welcome but encouraged to contact Hayne Steen directly at 904.290.6822. Hayne will personally reach back out to you to help streamline the process, should that ever be needed. 

  4. Location:
    Choose a counseling service that is convenient and accessible for you. Consider the distance from your workplace or home, transportation options, and any potential travel time constraints.

    Elbow Tree has three locations; St. Augustine, Jacksonville Beach, and Mandarin. Not every Elbow Tree counselor sees clients in every location. If location is most important to you, then we will do our very best to help link you with a counselor in that specific location. 


  5. Cost of Services: 
    Every SJCFR personnel member is eligible to confidentially access counseling services at no cost to the employee. 100% of your individual counseling OR couples counseling sessions are paid for through the contracted partnership between SJCFR and Elbow Tree. In order for counseling services to be covered, the qualifier for eligibility is "the fire rescue personnel member must be in the room." Children and individual spouses/partners of fire rescue personnel are not eligible to have the cost of individual counseling services to be covered under the current contract. They are welcome to access services at Elbow Tree, but those would need to be covered out of pocket (cash, check, credit/debit/HSA card) as Elbow Tree clinicians are not paneled with any insurance companies.. 

  6. Peer Support:
    Inquire if there are any peer support programs specifically tailored to firefighters within your organization. Sometimes, these programs offer specialized support and understand the unique challenges firefighters face.

    Elbow Tree works closely with peers in St. Johns County and communicate regularly with the Chaplain to explore opportunities for further debriefs of local critical incidents. 


  7. Trust and Connection:
    It's important to feel comfortable and have a good rapport with your counselor. Trust and connection are crucial for a successful counseling relationship, so consider scheduling an initial consultation or phone call to assess whether you feel at ease with the counselor.

    Each Elbow Tree counselor avails themselves to provide these kinds of professional consults prior to your first session. Do not hesitate to ask for this but most likely every counselor will initiate this as a part of their intake process. 


  8. Emergency Procedures:
    Discuss with the counselor their emergency procedures or protocols in case of a crisis or urgent situation. It's important to know what support is available during critical times.

Remember, seeking counseling is a courageous step towards prioritizing your mental health and well-being. Take the time to find a counselor who meets your specific needs and can provide the support you require as a firefighter. We look forward to serving you at Elbow Tree. 

Don't ever hesitate to reach out to directly Hayne Steen at hayne@elbowtreecooperative.com.
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Post-Traumatic Growth

6/16/2023

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In the spring of 2017, my daughter broke both of her arms while skating at the skatepark in downtown Chattanooga. When we learned that she had taken such a hard fall, we took her directly to the emergency room. She came home with shiny new new casts on each of her freshly broken arms. She wore casts on both of her arms until the end of that school year.

At the last visit to her bone doctor, he pulled out two x-rays. “Sadie, this image is from the day you came into our office with two broken arms.” I could see both breaks were clean and distinct. He went on to say, “Sadie, this next image is an x-ray we took today. Look at all that new bone. Your arms have never been stronger.” 

When I think of emotional or psychological injuries, I can not help but remember those parting words from the bone doctor. “Your arms have never been stronger.” The doctor defined for me that day the clearest definition of post-traumatic growth. 

When treated in a timely and intentional manner, both of my daughters arms were able to heal correctly. She went on to play four seasons of varsity basketball at her high school and even went to the state tournament finishing in the final four in the state of Florida. Her senior year she was the team captain and had an absolutely magical season. Her team had relied on both of her strong arms for four wonderful seasons. 

She recently graduated from high school and at her celebration dinner with all of her grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins present. I took a few minutes to remind her again of those same words from her doctor. I wanted her to remember that brokenness is not the final answer. What can happen in and beyond brokenness is remarkable when we take the time to treat it with the care it deserves and needs. 

In the fire service, you will experience physical, emotional, and psychological injuries. This is not just a likely event but certain as the work have chosen to do brings an inherent risk and likelihood. Good news! You have choices. You can choose to avoid the injury and it will likely become post-traumatic stress or worse. I’d like to advocate for you to address the injury. Research reveals that when you take an active approach to treating emotional injuries, you will likely experience “post-traumatic growth.” 

So how do I begin to effectively treat emotional injuries? 

Counseling: Reach out to an Elbow Tree counselor to schedule your first appointment. Call 904-877-4750 or email catherine@elbowtreecooperative.com to initiate getting scheduled. 

Education: Read (1) “Daring Greatly” by Brene Brown or (2) “The Body Keeps the Score - Brain, Mind and Body in the Healing of Trauma” by Bessell Van Der Kolk, MD

Listen: Check out a handful of thoughtful podcasts that promote emotional and psychological resilience. (1) Hidden Brain podcast (2) Unlocking Us podcast (3) Terrible, Thanks for Asking podcast. 

Watch: (1) Good Will Hunting (2) Inside Out (3) In Treatment (television series on HBO) (4) Ted Lasso 

There are so many amazing resources for taking a look at creative ways to attend to your inner life. May each of these be a helpful tool for cultivating new growth in your life!
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How True Are These to You?

5/12/2023

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Firefighters, like anyone else, may have various reasons for resisting or being hesitant to go to counseling. Here are some common reasons. How true do these feel to you? 
  1. Stigma: There may still be a stigma attached to seeking mental health support, particularly in professions like firefighting, where there is an emphasis on toughness and resilience. Firefighters might fear being perceived as weak or that seeking counseling could negatively impact their professional reputation.
  2. Self-Reliance: Firefighters are often trained to be self-reliant and handle challenging situations independently. They may believe that seeking help is a sign of weakness or that they should be able to manage their issues on their own.
  3. Denial: Some firefighters might deny or minimize the impact of their emotional or psychological challenges. They may downplay the need for counseling and convince themselves that they are handling things adequately.
  4. Fear of Consequences: Firefighters may worry about the potential consequences of seeking counseling, such as being seen as unfit for duty, facing job repercussions, or concerns about confidentiality breaches.
  5. Time Constraints: The demanding and unpredictable nature of firefighting can make it challenging to find time for counseling sessions. Shift work, long hours, and the need for rest and recovery may make it seem difficult to fit counseling into their schedule.
  6. Trust Issues: Firefighters may have trust concerns or a reluctance to open up to a counselor who is unfamiliar with their profession and the unique challenges they face. Establishing trust and rapport with a counselor can take time, and some firefighters may be hesitant to invest in that process.
  7. Fear of Revisiting Trauma: Firefighters witness and experience traumatic events as part of their job. Seeking counseling may mean confronting and revisiting these traumatic experiences, which can be emotionally challenging and uncomfortable.
  8. Lack of Awareness: Some firefighters may not be aware of the available counseling resources or the potential benefits of seeking support. They might not recognize the signs of distress or understand how counseling can help improve their overall well-being.

It's essential to address these concerns and misconceptions surrounding counseling in the firefighting community. Providing education, promoting mental health awareness, and creating a supportive environment can help overcome these barriers and encourage firefighters to seek the help they may need.

Interested in scheduling a counseling appointment with Elbow Tree? 
CALL 904.877.4750.. The first call will be focused on gathering some key info from you in order to link you with the most appropriate member of our counseling team. Once you've been linked with one of our counselors, they will personally reach out by phone and email to get the ball rolling to get you scheduled. 
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What Activities Promote Firefighter Resilience?

4/14/2023

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Firefighters can engage in various activities for self-care to promote their well-being. Here are ten examples:
  1. Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, such as weightlifting, cardiovascular exercises, or sports, to maintain fitness levels and manage stress.
  2. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness techniques or meditation to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve focus and mental clarity.
  3. Hobbies and Interests: Pursue activities outside of work that bring joy and fulfillment, such as painting, playing a musical instrument, photography, gardening, or cooking.
  4. Socializing and Connecting: Spend quality time with family, friends, or colleagues, fostering social connections and building support networks.
  5. Reading and Learning: Engage in reading books or articles on topics of interest, personal development, or leisure to stimulate the mind and expand knowledge.
  6. Creative Outlets: Explore artistic expressions like writing, drawing, or playing an instrument as a means of self-expression and stress relief.
  7. Nature and Outdoors: Spend time in nature, whether it's surfing, hiking, camping, fishing, or simply taking a walk in a park. Being in natural surroundings can have a calming effect and promote relaxation.
  8. Healthy Eating: Pay attention to nutrition and maintain a balanced diet. Ensure you're fueling your body with wholesome foods that provide energy and support overall health.
  9. Quality Sleep: Prioritize getting enough sleep and establish a consistent sleep routine. Good sleep is essential for physical and mental well-being.
  10. Relaxation Techniques: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or taking soothing baths to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Remember, self-care is essential for firefighters to manage the demands and stress of their profession effectively. It's important to find activities that resonate with you personally and incorporate them into your routine regularly.

Interested in scheduling a counseling appointment with Elbow Tree? 
CALL 904.877.4750.. The first call will be focused on gathering some key info from you in order to link you with the most appropriate member of our counseling team. Once you've been linked with one of our counselors, they will personally reach out by phone and email to get the ball rolling to get you scheduled. 
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DIG YOUR WELL

3/1/2023

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by Hayne Steen, LMHC
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People typically come into therapy when a circumstance, relationship or mental health issue activates an uncomfortable amount of pain and distress. It tends to be more of a reactive relationship with counseling.  

The best time to get a mental health resource in place is before tragedy strikes. A trusted friend of mine calls this “digging your well before you’re thirsty.” Getting established with a mental health counselor at Elbow Tree who you trust could be one critical way you prepare for trouble ahead. 

Let’s face it. Life throws us some menacing curve balls. 
  • A loved one receives a scary medical diagnoses. 
  • A spouse or partner loses that loving feeling.
  • An unexpected expense puts a strain on family finances.
  • A child begins demonstrating some high risk behaviors. 
  • An intense weather system floods your neighborhood and damages your home.  
  • A co-worker dies suddenly. 

In this world there will be trouble. Resilient men and women learn to embrace this truth. There may be no other culture of professionals in the world who are more acquainted with this truth than fire rescue personnel. Every day and every night you stand watch and listen for the tones.

In a world full of so much trouble, we can become jaded believing that world is ONLY trouble. Sometimes we just need some help leaning into the trouble as we learn how to hunt for the good. (good, beautiful and true) in the midst of our devastation.

Counseling is a space completely dedicated to promoting human resilience where we (1) can name the trouble we've known, (3) begin to hunt for the good and (3) grow in our ability to determine for ourselves what kinds of things are helpful to us and what things (practices, people, priorities) are actually quite harmful to us. 

Did you know that the severity of the impact of trauma is determined by two things? Frequency and duration. The greater the frequency and longer the duration of the trauma exposure, the more dynamic the emotional and psychological injury will be. 

Your job serving in fire rescue guarantees you will experience both frequent and enduring vicarious (nearby) and direct (head on) exposures to trauma. Your years of dedicated and faithful service to the fire rescue service will leave a harmful impression.

Not everyone wants to go to counseling. You are not alone if you experience a noticeable inner resistance to meeting with a counselor. We get it! It’s a massively vulnerable step to take. Firefighters are not the only ones who experience resistance. Here are a handful of "Reasons why people refuse to see a counselor." 

Do any of these feel familiar? 


  • “Why would I go to counseling when there is nothing really bothering me right now?” … 
  • “I don’t want to take away a resource that someone else might need.” …
  • "I'd rather talk to my friends." ...
  • "I don't have time." ...
  • "I saw a counselor once, and it didn't help." ...
  • "What good is talking going to do?" ...
  • "I'd feel weird talking about this stuff to a stranger." ...
  • "Therapists don't say anything; they just sit there and judge you."
Source:https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/i-hear-you/201710/10-reasons-why-people-refuse-talk-therapists

Each of the reasons to refuse counseling listed above are honest and legitimate expressions of resistance to pursuing therapy. Here's what I'd like for you to consider. 
  1. Notice your resistance but don’t get stuck there. 
  2. Call us and let's schedule your first appointment. 

The hardest part of getting started…is getting started. So grab a shovel and let’s dig a well before you are thirsty…before tragedy strikes.

If you think you'd like to explore having a regular space like this, don't hesitate to reach out and set up your first session, You can call our live operator 24/7 at  (904) 877-4750 and we will be in touch within 24 hours and get you scheduled for your first appointment within 7-10 days. 
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7 Tips for Firefighter Couples

2/10/2023

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Maintaining a strong and healthy marriage or partnership can be challenging for firefighters due to the unique demands and stresses of the profession. Here are some tips for firefighter couples.:
  1. Open and honest communication: Communication is crucial in any relationship, and it becomes even more important when one partner is a firefighter. Both partners should openly express their thoughts, concerns, and needs, while also being good listeners. Discuss the challenges and emotions associated with the job and find ways to support each other.
  2. Understand the demands of the job: Being a firefighter involves long hours, unpredictable schedules, and exposure to traumatic situations. It's important for the non-firefighter partner to understand these demands and be supportive. This may require flexibility, patience, and empathy when their firefighter spouse has to be away from home or deals with work-related stress.
  3. Establish a routine: Create a routine that works for both partners, considering the firefighter's schedule. Set aside quality time together, even if it's limited, and make the most of the time you have. Be flexible and understanding when plans need to change due to work commitments.
  4. Prioritize self-care: Both partners should prioritize self-care to maintain their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Firefighters often face high levels of stress, so it's important to find healthy coping mechanisms and support systems. Encourage each other to engage in activities that promote relaxation, exercise, and mental health.
  5. Build a strong support network: Surround yourselves with a supportive network of family, friends, and other firefighter couples who understand the unique challenges you face. They can provide a listening ear, advice, and a sense of community during difficult times.
  6. Foster trust and independence: Trust is crucial in any relationship, and it becomes even more important when a firefighter spouse is frequently away. Both partners should trust each other and have confidence in their commitment. Encourage each other's independence and maintain a sense of individuality while also nurturing your shared goals and aspirations.
  7. Seek professional help if needed: If the challenges of being a firefighter couple become overwhelming or if you're facing relationship difficulties, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A counselor or therapist with experience in working with first responder couples can provide valuable guidance and support.
Remember that every relationship is unique, and it may take time to find what works best for you as a firefighter couple. With patience, understanding, and a commitment to each other, you can build a strong and resilient relationship. .
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The Importance of Taking Time Off

1/13/2023

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Vacation and time off are crucial for firefighters, just like any other profession. Here are some reasons why vacation and time off are important for firefighters:
  1. Physical and mental rejuvenation: Firefighting is a physically and mentally demanding job that exposes firefighters to high-stress situations. Regular breaks and vacations allow firefighters to rest, recharge, and recover from the physical and emotional toll of their work. It helps prevent burnout and reduces the risk of stress-related health issues.
  2. Work-life balance: Firefighters often work long shifts, including weekends and holidays, which can disrupt their personal lives and family time. Taking time off allows firefighters to spend quality time with their loved ones, engage in hobbies, pursue personal interests, and participate in activities outside of work. It helps create a healthier work-life balance, enhancing overall well-being.
  3. Psychological well-being: Exposure to traumatic incidents and high-stress situations can impact a firefighter's mental health. Regular vacations and time off provide an opportunity to decompress, de-stress, and engage in activities that promote psychological well-being. It allows firefighters to step away from the constant demands of their job and focus on self-care and relaxation.
  4. Relationship nurturing: Firefighters often face challenges in maintaining strong relationships due to their demanding schedules and the nature of their work. Vacation and time off provide dedicated opportunities for firefighters to strengthen their relationships with their partners, children, and other family members. It allows for uninterrupted quality time and fosters deeper connections.
  5. Skill development and personal growth: Time off can be utilized for professional development, skill enhancement, and personal growth. Firefighters can attend training courses, workshops, conferences, or pursue educational opportunities during their downtime. This not only improves their effectiveness as firefighters but also contributes to their long-term career advancement.
  6. Team morale and cohesion: Vacations and time off also play a role in maintaining team morale and cohesion within the firefighting unit. Allowing firefighters to have regular breaks and time away from work reduces the risk of fatigue, improves job satisfaction, and promotes a positive work environment. It ensures that firefighters return to duty refreshed, motivated, and ready to perform at their best.
In summary, vacation and time off are vital for firefighters to maintain their physical and mental well-being, strike a healthy work-life balance, nurture relationships, promote personal growth, and support team morale. It is essential that fire departments prioritize and encourage the utilization of vacation and time off benefits to ensure the overall health and effectiveness of their firefighters.
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Mindful Practices for Fire Rescue

12/9/2022

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Mindfulness can be a valuable skill for firefighters in the context of fire rescue. Here are some mindfulness skills that can be helpful in this line of work:
  1. Breathing exercises: Focus on deep, intentional breathing to bring awareness to the present moment. Take slow, deep breaths in through the nose and exhale slowly through the mouth. This helps regulate the body's stress response and promotes a sense of calmness and focus.
  2. Body scan: Perform a body scan to become aware of any physical sensations or tension in the body. Start from the top of your head and slowly move down to your toes, paying attention to each body part. This practice promotes self-awareness and can help identify areas of tension or stress that may need attention.
  3. Grounding techniques: When faced with intense situations, grounding techniques can help bring your focus back to the present moment. Pay attention to your senses by noting the things you can see, hear, smell, taste, and touch. This anchors you to the present reality and can reduce feelings of overwhelm.
  4. Acceptance and non-judgment: Practice accepting the present moment as it is without judgment or resistance. This means acknowledging and observing your thoughts, emotions, and sensations without getting caught up in them. It allows for a clearer perspective and helps prevent unnecessary stress or distractions.
  5. Emotional regulation: In high-stress situations, emotions can run high. Mindfulness can help you observe and regulate your emotions effectively. Notice any emotions that arise without immediately reacting to them. Take a moment to pause, acknowledge the emotion, and choose a skillful response rather than an impulsive reaction.
  6. Focus and concentration: Mindfulness practice enhances your ability to sustain focus and concentration. During fire rescue operations, being fully present and attentive is crucial. Training your mind to stay focused on the task at hand helps improve decision-making, situational awareness, and overall effectiveness.
  7. Post-incident debriefing: Mindfulness can be integrated into the debriefing process after a fire rescue operation. Encourage all team members to share their experiences and emotions in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. This helps process any traumatic events, build resilience, and foster a sense of camaraderie within the team.
Remember, mindfulness is a skill that takes practice and consistency to develop. It is not a quick fix for all challenges, but it can provide valuable tools to navigate stressful situations with more clarity, resilience, and compassion. Consider seeking out mindfulness training or resources specifically tailored to firefighters to further enhance these skills.
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How can firefighters pay attention to suicidal ideation among other firefighters?

11/11/2022

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Paying attention to suicidal ideation among firefighters is crucial for early intervention and support. Here are some important steps and considerations for firefighters to be aware of and address suicidal ideation within their fellow firefighters:
  1. Education and awareness: Educate firefighters about the signs, symptoms, and risk factors associated with suicidal ideation. Promote awareness and knowledge about mental health issues, and encourage open discussions about mental health within the firefighting community. Training programs like Mental Health First Aid can provide valuable information and skills.
  2. Create a supportive culture: Foster a culture of support, compassion, and non-judgment within the firefighting community. Encourage open dialogue about mental health, reducing stigma, and normalizing discussions around emotional well-being. Make it clear that seeking help is a sign of strength, and that confidentiality and trust are essential.
  3. Look for warning signs: Be attentive to changes in behavior, mood, or appearance that may indicate someone is struggling. Warning signs may include withdrawal from social activities, increased irritability, changes in sleep patterns, sudden weight loss or gain, or expressions of hopelessness or despair. Trust your instincts and take any signs of distress seriously.
  4. Active listening and observation: When engaging with fellow firefighters, practice active listening and observe any signs of distress or concern. Take the time to have meaningful conversations and ask open-ended questions to encourage them to share their feelings. Pay attention to their emotional state and any indications of emotional pain.
  5. Encourage help-seeking: If you notice any signs of suicidal ideation or emotional distress in a fellow firefighter, encourage them to seek help. Provide them with information about mental health resources, counseling services, and employee assistance programs. Offer support and assist in connecting them with appropriate professional help.
  6. Stay connected and follow up: Maintain regular contact and check in on fellow firefighters who may be struggling. Show genuine concern and offer support. Regular follow-ups can help ensure that they feel supported, and it gives them an opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings.
  7. Confidentiality and reporting: While it is essential to respect confidentiality, there are situations where safety concerns override confidentiality. If someone expresses immediate suicidal intent or poses an imminent danger to themselves or others, it is crucial to report the situation to appropriate authorities, such as a supervisor or mental health professional, to ensure their safety.
  8. Encourage self-care and resilience-building: Promote self-care practices and resilience-building activities within the firefighting community. Encourage firefighters to engage in activities that promote their well-being, such as exercise, hobbies, and stress-reduction techniques. These practices can help reduce the risk of burnout and support overall mental health.
Remember, addressing suicidal ideation requires a compassionate and non-judgmental approach. If you suspect that someone may be at immediate risk of harm to themselves or others, contact emergency services or seek professional help immediately.
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WHAT MAKES A FIRE BURN?

10/26/2022

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by Hayne Steen
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"What makes a fire burn is space between the logs, a breathing space. Too much of a good thing, too many logs packed in too tight can douse the flames almost as surely as a pail of water would. So building fires requires attention to the spaces in between, as much as to the wood." –by Judy Brown

If you observed my life over the last couple months, you would quickly discover that I've been living with too many logs on the fire for far too long. I've desperately needed, as the poet suggests, a breathing space. 

During a typical week, if you looked at my iPhone around 5:00pm, you would notice that my phone has been on "Airplane Mode" for most of the day in order to be fully present with clients. The second I take my phone off of silent mode, a digital flurry begins. My phone screen lights up with an overwhelming number of of buzzes and dings which signify incoming texts, emails, and voicemails. My body simultaneously registers each and every digital message as extremely urgent. 

My automatic thoughts? Too many people are attempting to get my undivided attention, asking me for too many things, too fast, too soon. It can sometimes overwhelm my nervous system. When I can remember to take a breath, I can investigate my own pile of logs and begin to slowly 
dig my way out. Sometimes I am able to do that alone. More often it looks like having someone help me. 

Do you need space to breath? Our counseling team at Elbow Tree would love to help you carve out space for slowing down and paying attention to your inner and outer life.

Psychotherapist, Phil Stutz, describes three distinct layers that need attending to. He calls these our "inner fire". 

1. Take care of your body (sleep, eating, and exercise rhythms). 

​2. Take care of your relationships (with yourself, others and God). 

3. Take time to allow the unconscious to become conscious (therapy, journaling, reading, listening to your life). 


If you think you'd like to explore having a regular space like this where you can pay attention to places where the logs are packed in too tight, don't hesitate to reach out and set up your first session, You can call our live operator 24/7 at  (904) 877-4750 and we will be in touch within 24 hours and get you scheduled for your first appointment within 7-10 days. 

We look forward to helping you attend to your own inner fire!
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