What is mental health?
Mental health is an individual’s overall level of emotional, psychological, and social well-being. A person’s mental health can be affected by the person’s surroundings, genetics, personality, the state of the world, and culture. There are various levels of mental health. Mental health is often thought of as the absence of mental illness. However, this is not true. There are many ways for firefighters to support their mental health.
They can do their best to help each other by being a sounding board whenever possible. Those firefighters can also find support outside of their jobs through professional outlets. Mental Health Awareness Week is a time of year when we are encouraged to take a moment to think about our mental health and the mental health of others around us.
How firefighters can support their mental health
For firefighters, this can be a challenging topic. The jobs of firefighters mean that they often work to help others, but mental health can often suffer with the high workloads that can often come with the job. This may also result in mental health disorders for firefighters. So, to help support firefighters with their mental health, we have put together a list of 11 ways firefighters can support their mental health.
1. PRIORITIZE SLEEP
It is no secret that sleep is vital to overall health and happiness. Here are some helpful tips on prioritizing sleep for a happier you.
Your mind is at the centre of your health and well-being. When you prioritize sleep, your physical health and mental processes will benefit from this investment too. It is a well-known fact that sleep can increase the size of your brain, reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and help you live longer.
2. IMPROVE YOUR DIET
What is your diet doing to your body and your mental health? Your diet is going to have a significant impact on your mood. Your diet can help you improve your mood, and your mood will improve your diet. Stop eating processed foods and start eating healthier foods. Take a look at some of these simple meals you can make yourself. You’ll be surprised by what you can do with just a few ingredients.
3. EXERCISE, ESPECIALLY OUTDOORS
For many people, exercise has a significant impact on their mental health. From enhancing mood to improving depression, it is clear how vital training becomes when we are stressed out or struggling with mental health. Exercise, especially outdoor activities, is proven to be all-around positive for our mental health.
4. DIVERSIFY YOUR LIFE
The mental health crisis is all around us. We, as a society, need to acknowledge that mental health is just as important as physical health, if not more important. The struggle with mental health is accurate, and something that struggle can overcome that struggle. The battle is essential to our depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. We need to begin taking steps today to begin healing.
5. INCLUDE YOUR FAMILY
Mental illness is a severe condition affecting many people’s daily lives. The National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates that 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. will experience a mental illness in their lifetime. But that doesn’t mean you have to be a victim. It’s essential to know the signs of mental illness, and there are some ways you can manage the stresses of daily life that impact mental health.
6. RENEW/INITIATE SOCIAL CONNECTIONS AND CONSIDER FINDING A COACH, MENTOR, OR COUNSELOR
People with depression often need a positive connection in their lives. One way to find it is to find a like-minded group that shares your values.
Social connectivity is an essential part of mental health. Whether through social interactions, physical or digital spaces, or in the traditional sense, we should all strive to connect with other people. When we are connected, we can find a sense of community and belonging. There are many different ways of having social connectivity. Regardless of how you connect, it is important to consider seeking a coach, mentor, or counsellor to make sure you connect healthily and positively.
7. DON’T FORGET YOUR PETS
The holidays are a time for family and friends and celebrating the goodness of life. But for those who need support during the holidays, it can be hard to find a way to feel included. With the holidays just around the corner, it’s important to remember that sunshine and happiness outside of Christmas are also crucial for your mental health. So make sure to create time for yourself and your pets this time of year.
8. STAY UP TO DATE WITH TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
You were developing yourself as a professional is a monumental task. Nearly every professional strives to do something, but the process can become arduous. But with proper training and real-time development, you can harness new skills, increase your effectiveness and become more efficient. If you want to stay up to date with professional development, this is the post for you.
9. BE AWARE OF SELF-MEDICATION AND SUBSTANCE USE
Many people self-medicate to help with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Unfortunately, some people turn to substances and run into problems.
One of life’s most challenging things is dealing with depression. That is why people turn to self-medication because it often is the easier way to cope. The problem is that people often don’t know the consequences of self-medication. The fire departments should conduct regular mental health tests on professionals to diagnose any mental health issues.
10. KEEP UP TO DATE WITH MEDICAL CARE
Mental health is essential for healthy people of all ages. Medical care can improve your quality of life and help you avoid long-term problems. With the recent attention on mental health, it is essential to stay up to date with medical care.
Medical problems are something that many people find challenging to deal with. Unfortunately, many people do not take the time to keep up with their medical care. But having a doctor for your mental health is one of the most important things to do.
The American Psychological Association in Washington D.C. has compiled a list of articles and blogs that they believe are must-reads for anyone needing information on substance use disorders, mental health, or addiction. Moreover, firefighters are best aware of mental health first aid regarding their health issues. In case of severe problems, professionals should consult mental health therapists.
11. FIREFIGHTERS MUST AVAIL ONE LEAVE IN A WEEK
Leave is one of the most important aspects of general mental health in the workplace. There is a point in the Leave-in-the-Workplace policy in the United States called the “Leaves of Absence Conference,” or the Leave Conference, where it is stated that “absences” are used “to restore and maintain individual, physical or psychological health.” Firefighters must avail one day of rest from the firefighter academy and spend the time in a peaceful atmosphere. We are planning to celebrate mental health awareness week 2022 very soon.
Hi, I am John Smit a Captain in Fire Department City of Newyork with over years of experience in the field of Firefighting and HSE. My passion for fire safety started when I was a young boy and witnessed a neighbor’s house go up in flames along with precious lives. Since then, I had dedicated my life to ensuring the safety of buildings, properties, and individuals in case of a fire and medical emergencies.
