Self-Care & Why it’s Important for First Responders and Their Families
If you’re a first responder or the family member of one, you may or may know what self-care is or why it should be a regular part of your family’s life.
Self-care is simply the things we do to take care of ourselves emotionally, mentally, and physically. It’s the proactive measures we take to reduce our stress levels, improve our moods, and take care of our bodies.
It can be something as simple as taking a break to have a cup of tea or going for a walk outside.
It’s especially important for first responders and their families. Here’s why:
First responders are exposed to high levels of stress on a regular basis. Whether it’s rushing into a burning building, doing CPR on a baby, or being on constant alert for their safety and the safety of those they serve, that stress can have serious consequences on their physical and mental health.
Studies have shown that first responders are more likely than the general population to suffer from depression, anxiety, insomnia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse disorders.
First responders are passionate about their work and have a strong sense of duty.
They often have a hard time relaxing and tend to be workaholics, working long hours, overtime shifts, and may spend days at a time away from their families, which in turn can be stressful for the family member who may be juggling household responsibilities and a full time job.
Self-Care Can Help Reduce Stress Levels
While first responders can’t always control the amount of stress in their lives, they can control how they deal with it. And that’s where self-care comes in.
By taking some time each day to do something for themselves—whether it’s reading a book, going for a run, soaking in a bubble bath—first responders can proactively reduce their stress levels and improve their overall well-being.
Self-Care is Important for First Responder Families Too!
It’s not just first responders who need to practice self-care; their families need it too!
First responder families often deal with stresses that other families don’t have to contend with—such as worrying about their loved one being hurt or killed on the job—and those stresses can take a toll on their physical and mental health as well.
That’s why it’s so important for first responder families to find ways to relax and de-stress together.
Some ideas include taking walks together, playing games together, or watching movies together. Whatever works for your family, make sure you carve out some time each week to connect with each other and relax as a family unit.
First responders and their families face unique challenges that most people don’t have to deal with. And while they can’t always control the amount of stress in their lives, they can control how they deal with it by practicing self-care.
If you’re a first responder or the family member of one, make sure you prioritize your well-being by incorporating some self-care into your daily routine!