Resources

Reflections from the other end of the line: A love letter to all first responders, those who love them, and those who lead them

-Frankie Jo McNallan/ Blue Peak Program Manager

For the last 7 years, I have been the person on the other end of the phone on over 700 calls from firefighters, police officers, deputies, dispatchers, jailers, flight medics, and corrections officers, either struggling or in crisis from the effects of their career as a front-line worker.
Most often they do not know what is wrong with them but are looking for answers. Someone to validate that they are not going crazy. Someone to help put a name to the feelings they cannot explain within their head, within their soul, their being. Someone to explain why the rollercoaster of emotions, dark thoughts, and feelings of dread and bad behaviors will not stop. Click here to continue…

We want you to succeed! Below, find a library of downloadable resources to aid and guide you on on your path to mental wellness.

Find the right provider

If you are a first responder or family member of a first responder coping with post-traumatic stress from the job, finding the right provider who can help can be very difficult.

Managing anger

Anger is the emotional response that we have to an external or internal event perceived as a threat, a violation or an injustice. Let this guide help you understand

Preventing and treating burnout

The negative effects of burnout can spill over into every area of life—including home, work, and social life. Because of its many consequences, it’s important to deal with burnout right away.

Coping with stress

Stress comes to us all, be it through work, family life, relationships, calls, or on-the job. Here are some tips and healthy strategies to help manage your stress and support your mind and body.

For family members

First responder life is physically, mentally and emotionally taxing. This handout can help you understand your first responder, signs to look out for, and what you can do to help.

Family action plan

As a busy fire family, it is necessary to plan ahead to keep your family healthy, resilient, and connected. Firefighters call this “pre-planning”. Know what to look out for and what you’re going to do before things get tough.

Dealing with substance abuse

Many people turn to alcohol or other substances to help them “self-medicate” stress and trauma. While some people use substances recreationally, those that use it for self-medication are more likely to become dependent on that substance.

PTSD in the workplace

Learn how to identify the signs and symptoms of PTSD and the ways to help your fellow employee who may be suffering from it.

Sleep

Sleep deprivation plays a key role in the development of all illnesses. Learn tips and tricks on how to better your routine and set your self up for a healthy good nights sleep.

Dealing with the traumatic event

You and your department have just participated in a traumatic event. As such, you have been exposed to sights, sounds, smells, emotions, thoughts or demands that exceed normal working conditions or life experiences. These handouts will help you deal with a traumatic event and identify the signs and symptoms within yourself, your coworkers, and at the department level.