Jumpline magazine Q1 2023 - Flipbook - Page 32
32
BrotHERhood
Gabe Nemeth, Ret.
Behavioral Health and Wellness
in the Fire Service
Traditionally, medical and physical fitness have been prioritized
above emotional or behavioral fitness in the Fire Service.
However, it is clear from the aftermath of September 11th , the
numerous natural disasters in recent years and the increase
in mass shooting incidents, that these priorities are changing.
With each passing year, research shows that fire personnel
who balance physical, behavioral, and emotional fitness have
the best outcomes, whether it is in their career, their family wellbeing, or adjustment to retirement.
There is growing concern about behavioral health issues and
its significant impact on wellness. The stresses faced by fire
service personnel throughout their careers; incidents involving
children, violence, inherent dangers of firefighting, and other
potentially traumatic events can have a cumulative impact on
the individual’s mental health and well-being.
Our Local in partnerships with the IAFF continues to develop
resources that inform and educate our members on behavioral
health.
Other available resources:
First Responders Resiliency Foundation
Hotline: 786-551-4911
The BrotHERhood Initiative - Need help or know someone that
does? E-mail brotherhood@local1403.org
The IAFF Behavioral Health Program webpage
www.iaff.org/behavioral-health/#resource-guides
The IAFF Center of Excellence Resource page
www.iaffrecoverycenter.com/resources
The IAFF YouTube Channel includes a variety of video
segments addressing PTSD and other behavioral health
problems in the fire service. Search keyword PTSD on the
channel homepage - www.youtube.com/IAFFTV
BrotHERhood: an association, society, or
community of people linked by a common interest,
religion, or trade. We are blessed to have this
powerful bond that transcends our “departmental
borders.” It gives us the precious gift of instant
worldwide friendship and support, even from
strangers that merely hear that we a part of the
same cool society.
February 2023 | JUMPLINE Magazine