The loss of a first responder in the line of duty is a tragedy that no one ever wants to face.
It’s an unimaginable loss that can leave you feeling overwhelmed and isolated.
If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to know that you’re not alone.
There are healthy ways to cope with grief and loss associated with a line of duty death.
Let’s take a look at some helpful ways to cope with this difficult situation.
Reach out to your support network
Whether you are a first responder or a family member of one, it is important that you reach out for support when dealing with grief and loss associated with a line of duty death.
Your local community is likely made up of fellow first responders who understand what you’re going through and can offer emotional support
Give yourself time to grieve
Don’t try to bottle up your emotions or pretend like everything is okay when it’s not.
It’s okay to cry, and it’s okay to take time off from work if you need to.
Seek professional help if you need it
If you find yourself struggling to cope, don’t be afraid to seek out professional counseling or therapy.
Check with your employer to see if they offer EAP – Employee Assistance Program.
EAP typically offers a few counseling sessions for free.
Attend a support group
Attend a support group for families of first responders who have died in the line of duty
There are often groups available through local police and fire departments.
Get involved with a charity that supports families of fallen first responders
This can be a great way to honor your loved one while also helping others who are going through the same thing as you are.
Stay active and busy
It can be easy to want to just sit around and do nothing when you’re grieving, but staying active can actually help you cope better.
Talk about your friend or loved one
Talk about them as much as you want to—and don’t let anyone tell you that you should move on or stop talking about them.
Allowing yourself to grieve openly can help bring you some peace.
Write about your feelings
Write about your feelings in a journal or start a blog about your experience dealing with the loss of a loved one in the line of duty .
This can be therapeutic and can also help others who are going through the same thing as you are .
Make sure to take care of yourself both physically and emotionally
It’s important to eat healthy, exercise, and get plenty of rest.
It’s also important to allow yourself time to grieve and process your emotions.
Remember that it’s ok to not be ok
Grief is an incredibly difficult emotion to process. There is no right or wrong way to cope with it.
Do what feels right for you and know that there are people who care about you and want to help however they can.
Losing a first responder in the line of duty is an unimaginably difficult thing to go through, but know that you’re not alone.
Turn towards those around you for support – whether they are community members or professionals.
Always remember to take care of yourself both mentally & physically during this time.
Doing so will help ensure that while honoring their memory, you too have taken steps towards healing from this tremendous tragedy .